What factors influence the height and period of a wave?

The height and period of a wave are significantly influenced by the speed of the wind and the duration for which it blows over the water surface. When wind blows across the surface of the ocean, it transfers energy to the water, generating waves. The greater the wind speed, the more energy is transferred, which results in taller waves. Additionally, the duration or the amount of time the wind continues to blow in the same direction also plays a critical role; a longer duration allows for more energy to accumulate, leading to larger waves and potentially longer wave periods.

While other factors are involved in wave dynamics, such as water depth and current direction, their influence is not as direct or primary as that of wind. The size of a vessel is also not a contributing factor to wave characteristics themselves; it may affect how the vessel interacts with existing waves but does not influence the fundamental formation and characteristics of those waves. Thus, the relationship between wind speed and duration is fundamental to understanding wave properties in marine navigation and operations.