Coasts equilibrium

Question 1

As with any geographical system, the coast, as a system, has

The system constantly strives to be in a state of

Answer 1

inputs, stores, transfers and outputs

dynamic equilibrium

Question 2

The coast can be viewed as both an open system and a closed system
It is an open system because it receives inputs from the

Answer 2

lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and cryosphere

Question 3

However, during research and coastline management the coast can be seen as a closed system where a

Answer 3

specific sediment cell is examined

Question 4

Inputs in coasts

Answer 4

Sediments carried by rivers and waves

wind generated by waves

precipitation

Question 5

output of coasts

Answer 5

Eroded material taken away from the coast

ocean currents

evaporation

Question 6

Transfers in coasts

Answer 6

transportation processes

longshore drift

mass movement

wind moving sand

Question 7

There are examples of positive feedback at the coast

explain what positive feedback means in this context

Answer 7

Runaway change in natural state to take away from dynamic equilibrium

As waves erode the cliff, material is released
This material abrades the cliff which results in even more cliff erosion

Question 8

There are examples of negative feedback at the coast

explain what negative feedback means in this context

Answer 8

Changes that bring system back to dynamic equilibrium

As the shore is eroded, the material makes the wave-cut platform wider

This can absorb wave energy and reduce the impact at the base of the cliff