Coastal Geomorphology

Longshore drift is the process by which waves erode and transport sediment along a coastline, typically in a zigzag pattern.

An estuary is a partially enclosed coastal body of water with one or more rivers or streams flowing into it, and with a free connection to the open sea.

A spit is a long, narrow ridge of sand or gravel that is formed by the action of waves and currents, typically extending from the shoreline.

Chemical erosion is the process by which rocks and minerals are broken down by chemical reactions, typically involving water and acids.

A beach is a coastal landform that is formed by the deposition of sediment by waves and currents, typically consisting of sand, gravel, or pebbles.

A breakwater is a structure built offshore to protect a harbor or coastline from waves, typically consisting of a long, narrow wall of concrete or stone.

A cliff is a coastal landform that is formed by the erosion of soft rock by waves and currents, typically consisting of a steep, vertical face.

A coral reef is a type of marine ecosystem composed of the skeletal remains of corals, typically found in warm, shallow waters.

A dune is a coastal landform that is formed by the deposition of sediment by wind, typically consisting of sand or silt.

Earthquakes are not typically considered a coastal hazard, although they can cause tsunamis, which can be devastating to coastal areas.

Managed retreat is not a coastal management strategy, but rather a strategy for adapting to coastal erosion and sea level rise.

A delta is a coastal landform that is formed by the deposition of sediment by rivers, typically consisting of a fan-shaped deposit of sediment.

Temperate rainforests are not typically considered coastal ecosystems, although they can be found in coastal areas.

A headland is a coastal landform that is formed by the erosion of hard rock by waves and currents, typically consisting of a high, rocky promontory.