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When waves grow so tall that they topple over, they form ocean breakers known as "whitecaps." These occur when the wave reaches its peak and the crest spills over due to gravity, creating foam and turbulence on the surface of the water. Whitecaps are commonly seen in windy conditions and indicate strong wave activity.

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When waves grow so tall they topple over they form ocean breakers called?

When waves grow so tall that they topple over, they form ocean breakers called "whitecaps." These whitecaps are created when wind causes the wave crest to become unstable and break, leading to the formation of foamy white waves.


When the waves grow so tall that they topple over they form oceans breakers called?

When waves grow tall and eventually topple over, they form ocean breakers called "whitecaps." These occur when the wave height surpasses a certain point, leading to the crest breaking and spilling over. Whitecaps are characterized by their frothy appearance and are commonly seen in choppy waters or during stormy conditions.


What are ocean breakers?

Ocean breakers are large waves that form and break typically near the shoreline. They are caused by the interaction of wind, currents, and obstacles in the water. Breakers are important for coastal erosion and the formation of beaches.


What are waves in the open ocean called?

Waves in the open ocean are called ocean waves. These waves are generated by the wind and can travel vast distances across the ocean. Ocean waves can vary in size and strength depending on factors like wind speed and duration.


How might a heavy undertow affect the formation of breakers above it?

Breakers form as waves interact with the ocean floor. Undertows are moving out to sea along the ocean floor. Therefore, undertows must contribute to the slowing down of incoming waves and the buildup of water molecules that cause the waves to increase in height.


Near shore crest shaped waves are called what?

Near shore crest shaped waves are called "plunging waves." These waves are characterized by a curling crest that breaks forward as the wave approaches the shore.


What are the sound waves sent to the ocean floor called?

Sonar waves.


What is a rise in waves out in the open ocean called?

Swells


What are white crashing waves?

Whitecaps or Breakers


What do you call Waves that break on the beach?

Breakers


What are waves that travel across water called?

ocean tides


Does the Pacific Ocean have huge waves?

Yes. They are called Tsunamis.