The Hidden Math of Ocean Waves Crashes Into View | Quanta Magazine

The Hidden Math of Ocean Waves

A team of Italian mathematicians has made significant progress in understanding the math behind ocean waves.

Situated in Trieste, Italy, the International School for Advanced Studies offers a unique view of the Adriatic Sea, with the "bora" wind blowing erratically and affecting the waves.

“It’s very inspiring,” the mathematician said. “For sure the most beautiful view I’ve ever had.”

The "bora" wind drives the waves into reverse, streaming them away from the city and back toward the open sea, in a phenomenon that is both fascinating and complex.

Mathematicians have found the math of ocean waves to be notoriously uncooperative, but this team has made major advances toward understanding it.

Author's summary: Mathematicians uncover the hidden math of ocean waves.

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Quanta Magazine Quanta Magazine — 2025-10-15

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