Oceanography Exam Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from oceanography and coastal processes.

Types of waves

Capillary, wind, seiche, internal, tsunami, tidal.

Wave interference

Occurs when two waves meet, resulting in constructive, destructive, or mixed interference.

Rogue waves

Large and unexpected ocean waves that can pose a danger to ships.

Tsunamis

Shallow water waves caused by seismic activity.

Storm surge

An abnormal rise in seawater level due to wind and pressure changes accompanying storms.

Centripetal and centrifugal forces

Forces acting on Earth that balance out at the Earth's center, contributing to tidal shifts.

Semidiurnal tides

Two high tides and two low tides each day.

Diurnal tides

One high tide and one low tide each day.

Mixed tides

Variable amounts of high and low tides.

Beach composition

Made from local materials that are constantly in motion; sediment size affects beach slope.

Longshore current

Moves parallel to the shore, affecting sediment transport.

Dynamic coasts

Coasts that are constantly changing and shifting, impacting erosion and deposition.

Coastal wetlands

Habitat for various species acting as buffer zones for pollution.

Eutrophication

Nutrient overload in water bodies leading to excessive algal growth and oxygen depletion.

Dead zones

Areas in aquatic environments with insufficient oxygen levels, often resulting from pollution.