Gravity waves, on the other hand, are an ordinary mechanical phenomenon that is influenced by a planet's ordinary gravity. Most waves that one can see on bodies of water are ''not'' classified as gravity waves, because gravity does not play a specific role in the wave behavior (other than, obviously, making the water lie below the air). But some water waves ''are'' gravity waves, instead of the more common waves that are simply wind-driven. Tsunamis and tides are examples of true gravity waves. | Gravity waves, on the other hand, are an ordinary mechanical phenomenon that is influenced by a planet's ordinary gravity. Most waves that one can see on bodies of water are ''not'' classified as gravity waves, because gravity does not play a specific role in the wave behavior (other than, obviously, making the water lie below the air). But some water waves ''are'' gravity waves, instead of the more common waves that are simply wind-driven. Tsunamis and tides are examples of true gravity waves. |