Coasts as Natural Systems

Question 1

Dynamic Equilibrium

Answer 1

Inputs and outputs of energy and matter balance

The coastal zone is in dynamic equilibrium when looked at over geologic time

Question 2

Landscape

Answer 2

Entire areas of sea, coastline and immediate land behind the sea front that contains related landforms

Question 3

Landforms

Answer 3

Individual features which are created by coastal processes

Question 4

Positive Feedbacks

Answer 4

Flows leading to an increase / growth

i.e. Beach formation

Question 5

Negative Feedbacks

Answer 5

Flows leading to a decrease / decline

i.e. Mass movement decreasing cliff erosion

Question 6

Inputs

Answer 6

Energy or matter entering the system from other sources or systems

Question 7

Flows / Transfers

Answer 7

Processes of movement within the system

Question 8

Stores / Components

Answer 8

Parts of the system not necessarily in motion

Question 9

Outputs

Answer 9

Matter or energy leaving the system

Question 10

Example of a Positive Feedback

Answer 10

Beach starts to form
Slows waves down
More sediment deposited
Increases size of beach

Question 11

Example of a Negative Feedback

Answer 11

After a mass movement
Material deposited at foot of cliff
Waves can no longer erode the cliff

Question 12

Input Examples

Answer 12

Wind
Waves
Tides
Currents

Question 13

Flows / Transfer Examples

Answer 13

Erosion
Weathering
Transportation
Deposition

Question 14

Store / Component Examples

Answer 14

Landforms

i.e. Beaches

Question 15

Output Examples

Answer 15

Sediment washed out to sea

Sediment deposited further along coast i.e. in another cell