Energy at the coast and wave formation

• What shapes the coastline?

  • waves
  • wind
  • geology
  • weathering
  • human activity
• What are energy systems at the coast mainly generated by?


  the sun. the sun drives photosynthesis - the basis of marine and other ecosystems
• what is the dominant force at the coasts?


  wave energy
• What are waves caused by?

  the wind (NO WIND= NO WAVE)
• Why does the wind blow?

  Because of a difference in atmospheric pressure

  The difference in pressure is due to temperature differences at the Earth's surfaces
• What do large pressure differences cause?


  Large pressure differences (pressure gradient) causes strong winds to blow
• What does AIR PRESSURE measure?


  the weight of air pressing on the surface

  • units (mb)
• Give details about LOW PRESSURE?

  • warm air
  • winds
  • clouds
  • precipitation
  • WAM= WARM AIR MASS
  • WAM cools as it rises
• give details about HIGH PRESSURE?


  • cold air (dense and heavy!)
  • calm
  • clear skies (no wind or clouds or rain)
  • summer = heat wave
  • winter = fog/mist
• what happens to warm air mass as it rises?

  it cools