In order to reestablish eroding beaches,some municipalities deposit sand on the beach using trucks.In the process,known as beach nourishment,the beach front may be steepened relative to its original slope.Based on the relationship between beach slope and wave type,you know that this restoration process will result in the generation of
A)small breakers that will maintain the beach.
B)small breakers that will build the beach up even more in a cycle of positive feedback.
C)plunging breakers that will erode the newly deposited sand.
D)plunging breakers that will maintain the beach.
E)wave reflection and erosion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a beach is steepened beyond its original slope, it creates a more abrupt transition between the shallow and deep water, which will lead to the formation of plunging breakers. Plunging breakers are more powerful than small breakers and will erode the newly deposited sand. Therefore, beach nourishment can result in the opposite of the intended consequence and may cause more harm in the long run.

In Order to Reestablish Eroding Beaches,some Municipalities Deposit Sand on the Beach