Constructive vs. Destructive Waves

Question 1

What are the key differences between constructive and destructive waves?

Answer 1

Constructive waves have a strong swash and weak backwash, leading to deposition. Destructive waves have a weak swash and strong backwash, leading to erosion.

Question 2

How does wave energy affect constructive and destructive waves?

Answer 2

Constructive waves have lower energy and occur in calm conditions, building up beaches. Destructive waves have higher energy, often caused by storms, eroding coastlines.

Question 3

What role does wave frequency play in coastal processes?

Answer 3

Constructive waves have a low frequency (6-8 waves per minute), while destructive waves have a high frequency (10-14 waves per minute).

Question 4

Why does backwash in destructive waves remove more sediment than swash?

Answer 4

Destructive waves have steep angles and strong backwash, dragging sediment away before new material can be deposited.

Question 5

How do constructive waves contribute to coastal deposition?

Answer 5

They transport and deposit sediments, forming beaches, sand dunes, and spits through longshore drift.