Verification of numerical wave propagation models for simple harmonic linear water waves

Abstract When applying numerical methods to study short-wave propagation in the horizontal plane (refraction and/or diffraction problems) it is important to know which method can best be used with respect to accuracy, computer costs and practical flexibility. In this paper three models, indicated as the refraction model, the parabolic refraction-diffraction model and the full refraction-diffraction model, are briefly described, together with a comparison of the computational results of these models with measurements in a hydraulic scale model. Conclusions with respect to the practical use of the models are also given.