What is the process called when the sea loses energy and drops the sand, rock particles, and pebbles it has been carrying?

Prepare for the IGCSE Coasts Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and explanations for each query. Ready yourself for academic success!

The process in which the sea loses energy and deposits the materials it has been carrying—such as sand, rock particles, and pebbles—is known as coastal deposition. This occurs when waves lose their energy, typically when they approach shallow waters or when the wind speed decreases. As a result, sediment that was previously in suspension is dropped, leading to the accumulation of materials along the coast.

Coastal deposition is a critical process in shaping coastal landforms like beaches, spits, and bars. It contrasts with processes like erosion, where materials are worn away and transported rather than deposited. Thus, the correct identification of coastal deposition illustrates an understanding of how coastlines evolve through the balance of deposition and erosion activities.

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