Waves that form from the wind blowing across the surface of the water are known as wind waves. Mature wind waves are called swell, once they have left the formation region. They appear more organized as lines instead of peaks.
Some of the main factors that influence the formation of a wind wave are: 1) Wind Speed, 2) Fetch, and 3) Duration of Wind. Waves can range from the size of small ripples in puddles to over 100 ft. waves in the ocean. The more energy transferred to the water, the higher the waves. Drag the sliders to see how different characteristics of the wind affect the size of waves.
Fetch
The longer the distance the wind has travelled, the larger the waves.
Wind Speed
The faster the wind moves over the water the larger the waves.
Duration
The longer the time the wind has travelled the larger the waves.