What is a tsunami?

A tsunami is accurately described as a great sea wave produced by Earth movement. This movement typically occurs due to underwater volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, or landslides, resulting in a rapid displacement of water. Unlike regular waves created by wind, tsunamis can travel across entire ocean basins with immense energy and reach high speeds.

The key aspect distinguishing a tsunami from regular ocean waves is that tsunamis are generated by geological events rather than atmospheric ones. This makes the description of a tsunami being caused by Earth movement the most accurate characterization. Other options refer to different phenomena, such as wind-driven waves or lunar effects, neither of which is associated with the unique mechanics of tsunamis.