Photo AI
Examine how humans interact with one of the following surface processes: • River processes - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2015
Question C
Examine how humans interact with one of the following surface processes: • River processes. • Coastal processes. • Mass movement processes.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Examine how humans interact with one of the following surface processes: • River processes - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2015
Step 1
Interaction named: Coastal Processes
Answer
One prominent example of human interaction with coastal processes is the construction of sea walls. Sea walls are structures built to protect coastal areas from erosion and flooding caused by storm surges and high waves. They help stabilize the shoreline and prevent land loss, which can be crucial for both human habitation and local ecosystems.
Examination of Coastal Processes
- Erosion Control: Humans engage in various methods of controlling coastal erosion, such as planting vegetation to stabilize the sand and increasing sediment deposition.
- Tourism Management: Coastal areas often attract tourists, and human activities such as the construction of hotels and recreational facilities can lead to environmental stress, requiring careful management to reduce negative impacts.
- Habitat Alteration: Urban development along coastlines affects habitats, leading to loss of biodiversity. Efforts must be made to balance development with ecological preservation.
Annotated Diagram
An annotated diagram can illustrate the placement of sea walls and their impact on the shoreline, highlighting areas of erosion and stability. The diagram should show:
- The shoreline before and after sea wall construction.
- Areas of significant erosion and the corresponding locations of human intervention.
Step 2
Examine 9 SRP's @ 3m each
Answer
- Revetments: Structures placed on the banks of rivers to absorb the energy of incoming water, reducing erosion.
- Breakwaters: Offshore structures designed to protect the coast by breaking waves before they reach the shoreline.
- Beach Nourishment: The process of adding sand to beaches to combat erosion and increase beach width, providing flood protection and enhancing recreational spaces.
- Dredging: The removal of sediment from the bottom of water bodies to maintain or increase water depth, aiding navigation and preventing flooding.
- Mangrove Restoration: Planting mangrove trees to protect coastal areas from erosion, providing natural habitats and reducing storm impact.
- Groynes: Barriers built at right angles to the coast to trap sand and prevent erosion.
- Zoning Regulations: Implementing regulations that control coastal development, which helps prevent excessive human impact on vulnerable coastal areas.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating local populations about the importance of coastal conservation to promote sustainable practices.
- Marine Protected Areas: Establishing regions where human activity is regulated to protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
Step 3
Allow 1 SRP for relevant annotated diagram
Answer
The annotated diagram can visually represent the interaction of humans with coastal processes. It would depict a coastline with the various human interventions:
- Placement of the sea wall, showing the area it protects.
- Indicate areas of erosion along the coastline with arrows illustrating wave action.
- Label the key features such as groynes, beach nourishment zones, and natural vegetation areas. Each feature should have brief annotations explaining its significance in the context of coastal management.