What is the impact does low pressure systems have on the UK?
Low air pressure - results in lots of rainfall, we experience this more in winter resulting in more storms, due to stronger winds, the waves had more energy and increased the rates of erosion resulting in rapid costal retreat
What causes storm surges?
When low air pressure raises sea levels, it creates high water levels and stronger waves result in storm surges
What are the features of a constructive wave?
Long wavelength and low amplitude
Strong swash, weak backwash
What are the features of a destructive wave?
Tall wave height
Short wavelength
Weak swash, strong backwash
What factors affect the wave type?
The strength of the wind
How long the wind has been blowing
How far the wave has travelled - fetch
Why do some waves erode more than others?
Destructive waves have high energy and cause erosion, their backwash is more powerful than their swash which means these waves erode more material than they deposit