Explain how a tsunami is formed.

At a tectonic plate boundary, a earthquake occurs. This causes a large release of pressure and a tectonic plate to jolt upwards, causing a water displacement column. As a result, waves with a low frequency, low amplitude and a long wavelength ripple out in all directions. As these waves begin to get closer to the shoreline, friction with the sea bed begins to increase causing the wave to slow down. Whilst friction levels increase, the wave length shortens, the wave amplitude increases. Eventually the wave gets to such a height it breaks, thus causing a fully formed tsunami.

Answered by James F. Geography tutor

16005 Views

See similar Geography A Level tutors

Related Geography A Level answers

All answers ▸

Consider how international trade, TNCs and variable access to markets underly impacts on your life and other people’s lives across the globe. (20 marks)


What three factors make up the criteria of a biodiversity hotspot?


What is the difference between high energy and low energy coasts?


How can I improve my extended essay answers in the Contemporary Geographical Issues paper?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences