Shorelines

Front

What is longshore drift?

Back

The movement of sand along the shoreline caused by wave action, typically moving sand in a specific direction parallel to the coast.

Front

In which direction does longshore drift transport sand at a location where waves approach from the right?

Back

Right to left.

Front

What are sea stacks?

Back

Vertical rock formations in the sea formed by erosion, typically from waves creating cracks in headlands that eventually collapse.

Front

What is backwash?

Back

Water that runs back into the ocean after a wave has broken on the shore.

Front

What are dunes?

Back

Small hills on a beach created by the accumulation of sand due to wind action.

Front

What is a barrier island?

Back

Land formed over many years by the buildup of sand and dirt just offshore from the mainland.

Front

What causes the formation of sea cliffs?

Back

Erosion of rock by wave action, leading to the vertical drop of land along the coastline.

Front

What is beach nourishment?

Back

The process of adding sand or sediment to a beach to combat erosion and increase beach width.

Front

What is a jetty?

Back

A structure built out into the water to protect a harbor or coastline from waves and erosion.

Front

What are tidal flats?

Back

Coastal wetlands that are flooded and drained by the tides, often rich in biodiversity.