What is the Difference Between Tidal Wave and Tsunami?

The terms "tidal wave" and "tsunami" are often used interchangeably, but they are actually different and unrelated phenomena. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Cause: Tidal waves are caused by the gravitational forces of the sun or moon, resulting in changes in the level of water bodies. Tsunamis, on the other hand, are caused by the displacement of large bodies of water due to seismic disturbances, such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.
2. Formation: Tidal waves are shallow water waves, while tsunamis are deep water waves with a high wavelength, which can be a few hundred kilometers long.
3. Height: Tidal waves are usually only a few inches or feet tall, while tsunamis can grow to dozens of feet tall as they hit the shore.
4. Speed: Tsunamis can travel at speeds of up to 500 miles per hour (800 kilometers per hour), which is faster than a commercial jet plane. Tidal waves usually move between 10 and 20 miles per hour.
5. Occurrence: Tidal waves occur on a daily basis in most coastal areas due to the daily tidal cycle. Tsunamis, however, occur less frequently and are triggered by seismic disturbances in large water bodies.

In summary, tidal waves are created by the gravitational forces of the sun or moon and are part of the daily tidal cycle, while tsunamis are a series of water waves caused by the displacement of large bodies of water due to seismic disturbances. They have different formation processes, speeds, heights, and occurrence rates.

Comparative Table: Tidal Wave vs Tsunami

Here is a table comparing the differences between tidal waves and tsunamis:

Tidal waves are caused by the gravitational forces of the sun and moon and occur daily in most coastal areas. They have a relatively low speed and wavelength, and they do not cause significant damage. On the other hand, tsunamis are caused by geographical disturbances, such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, and can happen anywhere with a large enough water body. They travel at high speeds, have long wavelengths, and can cause significant damage, destruction, and casualties when they approach shallow water near landmasses.