sources of energy in coastal environments- coastal systems. Flashcards
1
Q
define fetch
A
maximum length of open water which wind can blow.
2
Q
importance of fetch
A
important factor in formation of waves
3
Q
what moves through the waves
A
kinetic energy moves through the waves in a circular motion.
4
Q
swash
A
sediment moved up beach
5
Q
backwash
A
sediment back into sea
6
Q
what is the primary source of energy for natural systems
A
sun
7
Q
what is the primary source of energy in coastal systems
A
waves that form offshore, that are generated by wind, or tectonic activity, that results in tsunamis.
8
Q
what’s wave height
A
distance between crest and trough
9
Q
what’s wave length
A
distance between two crests and two troughs.
10
Q
how does a wave form:
A
- winds move across the surface of the water, causing frictional drag, which creates small ripples and waves. this leads to a circular orbital motion of water particles in the ocean.
2.
