What causes the majority of ocean waves?

The majority of ocean waves are caused by wind. When the wind blows across the surface of the water, it transfers energy to the water, creating waves. The size and strength of these waves depend on several factors, including wind speed, duration, and the distance over which the wind blows (also known as fetch). This process is fundamental to understanding wave dynamics and is a critical aspect of marine and oceanic studies.

While earthquakes can cause waves, known as tsunamis, they are relatively infrequent in comparison to wind-generated waves. Tides, caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun, result in the rise and fall of sea levels but do not typically create the rolling waves that wind creates. Temperature changes can influence ocean currents and conditions but are not a direct cause of wave formation. Thus, wind stands out as the primary and most common driver of wave activity in the ocean.