Geo Hard And Soft Engineering Flashcards
What is hard engineering in coastal protection?
Hard engineering refers to the use of solid structures to control natural processes and protect coastlines.
True or False: Soft engineering is a more environmentally friendly approach to coastal management.
True
Fill in the blank: __________ are structures built to absorb wave energy and reduce erosion.
Breakwaters
What is the primary goal of coastal protection?
The primary goal is to protect coastal areas from erosion and flooding.
Which of the following is NOT a method of hard engineering? A) Sea walls B) Groynes C) Beach nourishment
C) Beach nourishment
What are groynes used for?
Groynes are used to trap sediment and prevent beach erosion.
True or False: Beach nourishment is a method of hard engineering.
False
What is a disadvantage of hard engineering methods?
They can be expensive and may have negative environmental impacts.
Define ‘soft engineering’.
Soft engineering involves using natural processes and materials to manage coastal erosion and flooding.
Fill in the blank: __________ involves adding sand to beaches to combat erosion.
Beach nourishment
What is the function of sea walls?
Sea walls are designed to protect the coast from wave action.
Which of the following is a soft engineering technique? A) Rock armor B) Managed retreat C) Sea wall
B) Managed retreat
What is managed retreat?
Managed retreat is a strategy where coastal communities allow certain areas to flood and relocate infrastructure to safer locations.
True or False: Hard engineering solutions require regular maintenance.
True
What is the purpose of a revetment?
Revetments are used to protect the base of a structure from erosion by dissipating wave energy.
Fill in the blank: __________ is a process that involves planting vegetation to stabilize sand dunes.
Dune stabilization
What is a major environmental concern of hard engineering?
Hard engineering can disrupt natural sediment transport and harm marine ecosystems.
List one advantage of soft engineering.
Soft engineering is typically more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
True or False: Hard engineering solutions can lead to increased erosion in adjacent areas.
True
What is a common material used in rock armor?
Boulders or large rocks are commonly used in rock armor.
What is the role of coastal vegetation in soft engineering?
Coastal vegetation helps to stabilize soil and reduce erosion.
Fill in the blank: __________ are barriers built out into the water to protect the shore.
Breakwaters
What does the term ‘coastal squeeze’ refer to?
Coastal squeeze refers to the loss of intertidal habitats due to rising sea levels and hard engineering structures.
Name one example of hard engineering.
Sea wall
