What is Longshore Drift?

Longshore drift is a process by which sediment is moved along the coastline. The prevailing wind blows waves, and the sand and pebbles that are being carried, onto the beach at an angle. The backwash carries material straight back down the beach, usually at 90 degrees to the coastline. This results in material being carried along the coastline in a zig-zag motion.

AW
Answered by Alice W. Geography tutor

2177 Views

See similar Geography GCSE tutors

Related Geography GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how El Niño cycles can lead to drought. (5 marks)


What are the economic problems associated with an ageing population?


What is longshore drift and what coastal defence mechanism is associated with it? Give examples.


Describe the differences between erosion and weathering


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences