The Coastal System
A coast is a narrow strip of earth where the sea meets the land. within this small piece of land many interactions take place, shaping and forming the many different coastlines that are seen across the world. These interactions result in a system, with inputs, processes and outputs.
INPUTS
> THE TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT: - The type of rocks, either soft rock or hard rock, found at the sea can have different effects on the coastline. - The rock strata (i.e. the layering of hard rock and soft rock) can shape differing coastlines. - Tectonics within the coastal region can have an affect, particularly where there is potential for tsunamis. > THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT: - The waves and tides have great energy contributing hugely to shaping the coast. - Natural features found close to the coast, for example mangroves and coral reefs, can affect the waves and the currents, reducing the energy reaching the shore. > THE ATMOSPHERE: - The weather, especially extreme weather such as strong winds and heavy rain, can greatly aid to the shaping of a coast. - The temperatures experienced in the coastal region can affect the features of erosion. - Climate change is affecting sea level, which will have an effect on the coast. > HUMAN INFLUENCE - Ports and harbours built for access have the potential to affect wave energy. Boats may also damage natural features (e.g. coral reefs) changing there function at the coast. - Human settlements along the coast, as well as mass tourism to the seaside, can have weathering effects. |
PROCESSES
> Transportation: - Solution, - Suspension, - Saltation - Traction. > Erosion: - Hydraulic Action, - Abrasion, - Attrition - Corrosion. > Sub-aerial processes: - Freeze Thaw, - Salt Crystallisation, - Biological Weathering - Chemical Weathering. > Mass Movement: - Soil Creep, - Rockfalls and Landslides, - Earth Flows and Mudslides, - Slumps - Run-off > Deposition |
OUTPUTS
> Features of Erosion: - Headlands and Bays, - Caves, Arches and Stacks, - Blowholes and - Wave-cut Notches and Platforms > Features of Deposition: - Ridges and Runnels, - Berms, - Cusps, - Spits, - Bars and - Tombolo. |