Is a “Square Wave”?
Despite the name, square waves aren’t actually square-shaped individual waves. The term describes the pattern created when two different wave systems intersect.
Under normal conditions, waves approaching a beach tend to travel in a relatively consistent direction. With a cross sea, however, waves can arrive from different directions and intersect at an angle. Viewed from above, the crests can create a grid-like or checkerboard appearance.
The phenomenon can occur when an existing swell continues traveling while winds change direction and generate another set of waves. It can also happen when separate weather systems generate wave systems that eventually meet in the same area.
That means the unusual pattern isn’t caused by two oceans literally meeting together. It’s the result of different wave systems crossing one another.
Why Do Square Waves Form?
Ocean waves carry energy across the water. Wind is one of the primary forces responsible
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