Coastal geology is the study of the landforms and processes found in coastal areas. It focuses on how processes such as erosion, deposition, tectonic activity, sea level change, and climatic effects shape and reshape the coastline. In this article, we will explore the definition of coastal geology and the various processes that can affect it, as well as provide examples of coastal geology from around the world.
Coastal geology is a sub-discipline of geology which deals with the study of the landforms, processes, and sedimentary environments found along the coastlines of a region. It involves the study of both natural and human-induced changes that occur within coastal areas, such as changes in sea level, river discharge, wave heights, and other elements of coastal regimes. Coastal geology also examines the physical and chemical makeup of sediments associated with the coast, including those created by erosion, deposition, and transport along the shoreline. In addition, it examines the impact of human activities on coastal environments, such as the management of marine resources, coastal engineering, and human-induced shoreline alterations.
Coastal geology is a complex area of study that looks at the erosion, deposition, and other geological processes that occur along coasts. There are many different processes that can have an effect on coastal geology, from natural phenomena such as wind and waves, to human activities such as land reclamation and coastal defense strategies.
Wind and wave-driven processes are one of the most important forces that shape our coasts. These processes include wave action, wave-driven currents, and longshore drift. Wave action is when wave crests break against the coastline, causing the erosion of sediment. Wave-driven currents are currents created by wave action, which can transport sediment along the coast. Longshore drift is the process where sediment is relocated along the coast due to the movement of waves. All of these processes can cause erosion, sediment deposition, and other changes to shorelines over time.
Coastal geology encompasses any geological process that affects areas along coastlines, such as beaches, dunes, cliffs, shorelines, and estuaries. Coastal geology is relevant for a variety of disciplines including oceanography, geomorphology, engineering, hydrology, and more. There are a variety of examples of coastal geology; some of the more common ones are discussed below.
Beaches are arguably the most visible example of coastal geology. Beach formation is caused by waves breaking along the coast and the sediment they carry, with resulting landforms such as beach sand, bars, dunes, and berm. Beach erosion is also an important part of coastal geology, as the natural forces of wind and water shape the coastline over time. Changes in beach contours, formation of sandbars, and the development of sea-cliffs can all be attributed to erosion from coastal waves.
Cliff erosion is another important aspect of coastal geology, as it works to influence the shape of a beach and create a dynamic coastline. Cliffs erode over time as waves hit them and remove pieces at their base. This can lead to striking formations such as sea-stacks or terraced features on the beach.
The processes of coastal geology are constantly reshaping our coastline, leading to an ever-evolving shoreline. Examples of these processes can be found throughout the world, providing us with insight into how this fascinating phenomena works.