What term describes the water that is washed up the beach when a wave breaks?

The term that describes the water that is washed up the beach when a wave breaks is known as swash. Swash refers to the movement of water that flows up the beach after a wave breaks, often carrying sand and sediment with it. This process contributes to beach formation and erosion, as it can shape the coastal landscape by depositing materials as the water retreats.

In the context of coastal dynamics, swash plays a vital role in the transport of sediments, influencing beach profiles and maintaining coastal ecosystems. Understanding the concept of swash is crucial for analyzing how beaches change over time and how they respond to various environmental factors.