Study GuideGeology–The Shorelines1. BeachesBeaches are one of the most familiar and interesting coastal landforms. They are shaped every dayby waves, currents, and sediment movement.What Is a Beach?Abeachis the area of sand or gravel (and sometimes silt) that covers the shoreline. It stretches fromthe low-water edge up to a clear upper boundary, such as a bluff, cliff, or area with vegetation.Key Parts of a Beach•Beach faceThis is the slopingsurface of the beach that faces the ocean. It is usually the steepest partbecause waves hit it directly and cause the most erosion.•Marine terraceJust offshore from the beach face is a gently sloping platform called the marine terrace. It mayonly be visible during low tide. This surface can be made of sediments left behind byretreating waves, or it may be solid rock that has been worn down by waveaction.•BermThe landward edge of the beach is marked by theberm. This is a raised ridge of sedimentdeposited by high-energy waves during strong storms. Berms are often made of coarsematerial and may contain many shell fragments.Preview Mode
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