How Do Ocean Waves and Tides Affect Erosion and Sediment Movement on Coastlines?

Ocean waves and tides are important for shaping our coastlines. However, they also cause some problems, like coastal erosion and moving sand and mud.

1. Coastal Erosion:

   • Strong waves can wear away cliffs and beaches, causing land to disappear faster.
   • The constant rise and fall of tides can weaken coastal structures, like piers and seawalls.

2. Sediment Movement:

   • The ongoing motion of waves can shift sand and mud around, changing where they settle.
   • This movement can disturb local plants and animals and affect people's activities, like fishing and beachgoing.

Possible Solutions:

• Building special structures, like breakwaters, can help lessen the power of waves.
• Restoring natural areas, like wetlands, can help protect coastlines from erosion.

Even with these solutions, the changing ocean can make it hard to find long-lasting fixes.