As a field expert in coastal and oceanic studies, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of the characteristics of a destructive wave. Destructive waves, often associated with storm surges or tsunamis, have several distinct characteristics: 1. High Energy: These waves carry a significant amount of energy due to their force and size. 2. Large Wave Height**: Unlike the waves mentioned in your reference, destructive waves are typically quite high, which contributes to their destructive power. 3. Short Wavelength: Contrary to the long wavelength of the waves that build up beaches, destructive waves often have a short wavelength, which allows them to travel quickly and maintain their energy over long distances. 4. Strong Backwash: Unlike the swash being stronger than the backwash in beach-building waves, destructive waves have a powerful backwash that can pull objects and sediment back into the water with great force. 5. Rapid Onset: Destructive waves can form and reach land quickly, often with little warning, especially in the case of a tsunami. 6. Coastal Impact: They can cause significant erosion, flooding, and damage to coastal infrastructure due to their high energy and force upon impact. 7. Deposition vs. Erosion: While the waves you described deposit material and build up beaches, destructive waves are more likely to erode and carry away material. read more >>

They are created in calm weather and are less powerful than destructive waves. They break on the shore and deposit material, building up beaches. They have a swash that is stronger than the backwash. They have a long wavelength, and are low in height.read more >>