Why Is “Tidal Wave” a Misleading Name?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why is “tidal wave” a misleading name?

The Big Idea

A tsunami has nothing to do with the tides. The word comes from Japanese and means harbor wave. Using the right word helps people understand what is happening, and what to do.

Tides

Step one: tides. Tides are the slow rise and fall of the sea each day, a bit like the ocean breathing. They are caused by the pull of the Moon and the Sun.

Tsunami

Step two: tsunami. A tsunami is caused by an earthquake, a landslide, or a volcano that moves a lot of water. It can happen at any time, even at low tide, so it is a surprise.

Right Word

Step three: the right word. Calling a tsunami a tidal wave makes it sound like a tide, but it is not. Clear words help people understand and stay safe, and scientists use the word tsunami all over the world.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! The Moon pulls on the ocean. That makes tides rise and fall, usually twice a day. A tsunami starts with a sudden push of water. That makes the wave we call a tsunami.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Tsunami is said soo-NAH-mee. The Japanese words mean harbor and wave. Tides are regular, but tsunamis are rare. A tsunami is a series of waves, not just one.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Write a name card for tide and another for tsunami. Under each, list what causes it. Also list how long it lasts. Which one is regular, and which one is a surprise?

Outro

A tsunami is not a tidal wave, because tides have nothing to do with it. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!