The above explanation is a simplification as not all tidal wave energy is transmitted, but it is partly reflected at the continental slope. The transmission coefficient of the tidal wave is given by:
This equation indicates that when  the transmitted tidal wave has the same amplitude as the original wave. Furthermore, the transmitted wave will be larger than the original wave when  as is the case for the transition to the continental shelf.
The reflected wave amplitude () is determined by the reflection coefficient of the tidal wave:
This equation indicates that when  there is no reflected wave and if  the reflected tidal wave will be smaller than the original tidal wave.