Constructed Vs Destructive Waves

Question 1

What are constructive waves characterized by?

Answer 1

Wave height less than 1m and long wavelength (up to 100m)

Constructive waves are typically gentle and contribute to beach building.

Question 2

What are constructive waves also known as?

Answer 2

Spilling or surging waves

The term ‘spilling waves’ refers to the gradual breaking of waves, while ‘surging waves’ describes waves that break more abruptly.

Question 3

What is the effect of strong winds on sediment during constructive waves?

Answer 3

Pushes sediment up the beach, creating a ridge

This process helps in the formation of berms or ridges on the beach.

Question 4

What happens to sediment during the swash of constructive waves?

Answer 4

Sediment is pulled up the beach

This action contributes to the deposition of sediment.

Question 5

What are destructive waves characterized by?

Answer 5

Wave height over 1m and common during storms

Destructive waves are typically steep and have a strong backwash.

Question 6

What is the effect of the backwash of destructive waves?

Answer 6

Erodes beach material and carries it offshore

This erosion can lead to significant beach loss over time.

Question 7

What is created due to the action of destructive waves?

Answer 7

A ridge formed by eroded beach material

This ridge often represents the remnants of previously deposited materials.

Question 8

Fill in the blank: Constructive waves have a wave height of less than _______.

Answer 8

1m

Question 9

Fill in the blank: Destructive waves typically have a wave height of over _______.

Answer 9

1m