Characteristics of waves generated by a local disturbance

Waves generated by an initial local elevation or depression of uniform height were investigated in a two‐dimensional model. The height of the elevation or depression, the extent of the disturbed area, and the water depth were varied. The model data were compared with the theories of Unoki and Nakano [1953] and Kranzer and Keller [1955]. It was found that within certain limits of water depth, height, and extent of disturbed area the wave characteristics, such as phase periods and interference pattern, could be described reasonably well. The magnitude of the wave heights was not predicted satisfactorily.