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Look at Diagram Q2 - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 2 - 2023
Question 2
Look at Diagram Q2. Explain the formation of a sand bar. You may wish to use an annotated diagram or diagrams in your answer.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Look at Diagram Q2 - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 2 - 2023
Step 1
Processes:
Answer
Sand bars are formed by the process of longshore drift which is lateral/zag-zag movement of sediment along the beach. When waves approach the beach at an angle, they transport sediment along the shore. The swash (the movement of water up the beach) moves sand in the direction of the wave, while the backwash (the water retreating back down the beach) pulls some of the sand back, but due to angles and currents, more sand is moved in the direction of the wave's approach, leading to the accumulation of sand in certain areas.
Step 2
Sand Bars:
Answer
A sand bar forms where there is a change in direction on a coastline, allowing sand to build up above the low water mark. This occurs when wave energy diminishes, allowing particles to settle and build up over time. This process can create a barrier that is higher than the surrounding beach level, often resulting in shallow waters on one side and deeper waters on the other side of the bar.