QuestionMarch 18, 2026

We know that sand is always in motion and that most transport is parallel to shore. Describe the two mechanisms by which most littoral transport occurs. square

We know that sand is always in motion and that most transport is parallel to shore. Describe the two mechanisms by which most littoral transport occurs. square
We know that sand is always in motion and that most transport is parallel to shore.
Describe the two mechanisms by which most littoral transport occurs.
square

Solution
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Answer

The two mechanisms are: 1. **Longshore drift** – movement of sediment parallel to shore within the surf zone by longshore currents generated by oblique wave approach. 2. **Beach drift** – zigzag motion of sediment on the beach face from swash and backwash, moving material alongshore. Explanation 1. Identify the main processes of littoral transport The major mechanisms are *longshore drift* (movement of sediment along the shore by wave action) and *beach drift* (zigzag sediment movement by swash/backwash). 2. Describe longshore drift Caused by waves approaching at an angle; generates a **longshore current** that transports sediment parallel to shore. 3. Describe beach drift Sediment moves in a zigzag path up and down the beach face from swash (up-slope) and backwash (downslope), cumulatively shifting sand alongshore.

Explanation

1. Identify the main processes of littoral transport <br /> The major mechanisms are *longshore drift* (movement of sediment along the shore by wave action) and *beach drift* (zigzag sediment movement by swash/backwash). <br /><br />2. Describe longshore drift <br /> Caused by waves approaching at an angle; generates a **longshore current** that transports sediment parallel to shore. <br /><br />3. Describe beach drift <br /> Sediment moves in a zigzag path up and down the beach face from swash (up-slope) and backwash (downslope), cumulatively shifting sand alongshore.
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