Question

Select the correct formula of potential energy in wave energy?

(a) \(\frac{PE}{A} = \frac{1}{4}ρa^2 × \frac{g}{g_c}\)

(b) PE = \(\frac{1}{4}ρa^2 × \frac{g}{g_c}\)

(c) \(\frac{A}{PE} = \frac{1}{4}ρa^2 × \frac{g}{g_c}\)

(d) \(\frac{PE}{A} = \frac{1}{4}\)ρa^2 × g

This question was addressed to me in a job interview.

I need to ask this question from Wave Energy topic in chapter Ocean Energy & Geothermal Energy of Energy Engineering

Answer 1

Correct choice is (a) \(\frac{PE}{A} = \frac{1}{4}ρa^2 × \frac{g}{g_c}\)

Explanation: \(\frac{PE}{A} = \frac{1}{4}ρa^2 × \frac{g}{g_c}\) is the correct formula for the potential energy of a wave.

g = gravitational acceleration, m/s^2

gc = conversion factor

ρ = water density

a = amplitude

A = λL in J/m^2.