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Analyse the data shown in Figure 5 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 3
Analyse the data shown in Figure 5. Figure 5, on the insert, is an image of the coast in the vicinity of Chabahar Bay, Iran. The image focuses on the movement of se... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse the data shown in Figure 5 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Clear analysis of the map evidence to show understanding of sediment transport around this sediment cell.
Answer
The image indicates that the coastline is influenced by longshore drift, with sediment traveling from east to west due to the dominant wave direction, which is north-northwest. This suggests that waves may push sediment towards the coastline at a slight angle. The impact of longshore drift results in sediment being moved along the coastline, influencing areas of deposition and erosion.
The coastal area measures approximately 50-60 km long, demonstrating significant sediment transport. Since there is no coastal protection in place, sediment loss is prominent, especially around the river outlets where sediment is often lost most actively. The river sediment transport further complicates the movement of sediment as it interacts with the longshore current.
Step 2
Basic analysis of the quantitative evidence provided.
Answer
Quantitative evidence from the figure shows varying volumes of sediment transport, particularly '2000 m³/yr' indicated near river outlets. The erosion area is evident at the down-drift side of the river, reinforcing the notion that sediment is being lost here. Furthermore, the data highlights a larger deposition zone (240 m³/yr) farther down the coast, which indicates a net gain of sediment resulting from longshore drift and river sediment.
Overall, the analysis suggests a dynamic interaction between the longshore drift and river discharge that significantly affects sediment distribution along the coast.