Coastal Features & Sea Level

Front

What is the definition of a Coast?

Back

The coast is the area where land meets the ocean, extending inland as far as ocean-related features are found.

Front

What is a Barrier Island?

Back

A Barrier Island is an extremely long offshore deposit of sand that runs parallel to the coast and protects the mainland from high wave activity.

Front

What are Deltas?

Back

Deltas are triangular deposits of sediment that form where rivers empty into oceans or seas.

Front

What is the Offshore zone?

Back

The Offshore zone is the area beyond the low tide breakers, where the water is deeper and waves are less impactful.

Front

What is the Inshore zone?

Back

The Inshore zone is the area of the ocean that is closest to the shore, where waves break and affect the beach.

Front

What is the Backshore zone?

Back

The Backshore zone is the area of the beach that is above the high tide line and is usually dry.

Front

What is the significance of coastal erosion?

Back

Coastal erosion is the process by which coastlines are eroded by wave action, currents, and tides, leading to loss of land.

Front

What are the main factors affecting sea level rise?

Back

The main factors affecting sea level rise include thermal expansion of water, melting ice caps, and glaciers.

Front

What is a Jetty?

Back

A Jetty is a structure built out into the water to protect a harbor or coastline from the effects of waves and currents.

Front

What is the difference between erosion and deposition?

Back

Erosion is the process of wearing away land, while deposition is the process of laying down sediment in a new location.