The littoral zone

What are the characteristics of the backshore?

• it is above the influence of waves

• It changes during storm conditions

• Sub aerial processes occur

• Storm beaches, pebbles, berms and shingles are found here

What are the features of the foreshore?

• between the high and low watermark

• Most effected by marine factors

• Landforms- berms and beach cusps

What are the features of the nearshore?

• Where the waves break

• Between the low water mark and where the waves cease

• Landforms - ridges and runnels

What are the features of the offshore?

• beyond the breaking point

• Waves do not effect the sea bed

• Deposition and erosion is limited

• Landforms - offshore bars

Only Nice Fags Bum

Offshore Nearshore Foreshore Backshore

Why is the coastal zone an area of dynamic equilibrium?

• it is an open system

• The amount of sediment and energy deposited is eventually equal to the amount being out putted

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