Significant wave height

In physical oceanography, the significant wave height (SWH, HTSGW^[1] or H_s) is defined traditionally as the mean wave height (trough to crest) of the highest third of the waves (H_1/3). It is usually defined as four times the standard deviation of the surface elevation – or equivalently as four times the square root of the zeroth-order moment (area) of the wave spectrum.^[2] The symbol H_m0 is usually used for that latter definition. The significant wave height (H_s) may thus refer to H_m0 or H_1/3; the difference in magnitude between the two definitions is only a few percent. SWH is used to characterize sea state, including winds and swell.

^ "About earth :: A global map of wind, weather, and ocean conditions".
^ Holthuijsen, Leo H. (2007). Waves in Oceanic And Coastal Waters. Cambridge University Press. p. 70. ISBN 978-0-521-86028-4.

[1] "About earth :: A global map of wind, weather, and ocean conditions".

[Holthuijsen-2] Holthuijsen, Leo H. (2007). Waves in Oceanic And Coastal Waters. Cambridge University Press. p. 70. ISBN 978-0-521-86028-4.

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