What causes ocean waves?

Ocean waves are primarily caused by wind transferring energy to the water’s surface. The strength, duration, and distance of the wind, known as fetch, determine the size and energy of the waves. Other factors, such as underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides, can generate waves, including tsunamis. The interaction between waves and the ocean floor shapes their height and movement as they approach shorelines, creating the familiar crashing waves.