Which of the following best defines the term “beach zone”?

The term "beach zone" specifically refers to the area between high and low tide marks along the coastline. This region is where the actions of waves, tides, and currents significantly shape the landscape and influence the environment. It is characterized by the dynamic interaction between land and sea, where the processes of erosion, deposition, and sediment transport occur. This area is vital for various coastal ecosystems and plays a crucial role in recreational activities as well.

In contrast, while wind exposure is a factor that can affect coastal processes, it does not specifically define the beach zone itself. The area with accumulated materials may refer to a beach or similar coastal features but does not encapsulate the tidal influence that delineates the beach zone. Coastal infrastructure, such as seawalls or piers, pertains to human-made structures and is not part of the natural definition of the beach zone. Thus, the area between high and low tide marks is the clearest and most accurate definition of the beach zone in coastal geography.