Final answer:
The height of tsunami waves on shore depends on several factors such as the distance and direction from the earthquake epicenter, ocean depth, and coastal features.
Step-by-step explanation:
The height of tsunami waves on shore depends on several factors, including the distance and direction from the undersea earthquake that triggers them. Most earthquakes occur along plate boundaries, where the tectonic plates come into contact and their movements can lead to natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
When an earthquake happens near the sea, it can displace a large amount of water, generating a series of ocean waves known as a tsunami. The characteristics of these waves vary depending on factors like the depth of the ocean and the features of the coastal area they encounter. In deep ocean waters, tsunamis may appear small and travel at high speeds. However, as they reach shallower coastal waters, they slow down and increase in height, potentially reaching up to 30 meters, causing significant destruction upon their arrival at the shore.
The devastating events of the 2011 earthquake off the coast of Japan and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami illustrate how powerful and destructive these natural events can be. Volcanic eruptions and underwater landslides can also trigger tsunamis. Understanding the relationship between earthquakes and tsunamis is crucial in predicting the impact of these waves and implementing effective disaster preparedness and response strategies.