Question

What is beach erosion?

Answer 1

Beach erosion occurs when sediments on the beach are worn away.

Explanation:

Beach erosion occurs when sediments on the beach are worn away. The image below is an example.

Erosion of a beach or coastline can happen gradually or quickly and it can occur naturally or aided by human activities. By removing vegetation, which holds sand in place and provides a buffer against wind and water, humans may increase the rate of erosion. Damning rivers also impacts beaches, as inland waters may provide sediments to beaches. Thus, the rate at which the beach accumulates sediments declines.

Erosion also occurs naturally due to waves or currents. Storm surges and extreme weather events can particularly erode beaches, although this sediment is often returned to the beach over time. Learn more about natural erosion here.

To read extensively about coastal erosion, see this link.