Introduction to Coastal Processes and Geomorphology / Edition 2

by Gerd Masselink

Overview

The world's coastlines represent a myriad of dynamic and constantly changing environments. Heavily settled and intensely used areas, they are of enormous importance to humans and understanding how they are shaped and change is crucial to our future.

Introduction to Coastal Processes and Geomorphologybegins by discussing coastal systems and shows how these systems link to the processes examined in detail throughout the book. These include the morphodynamic paradigm, tides, waves and sediment transport. Later chapters explore fluvial deltas, estuaries, beaches and barriers, coastal sand dunes and geologically-influenced coasts such as cliffs, coral reefs and atolls.

A new chapter addresses the forward-facing aspect of coastal morphodynamics, including the ways in which coasts respond to rapid climate changes such as present day global warming. Also new to this second edition is a chapter on future coasts which considers the wider effects of coastal change on other important aspects of coastal systems, including ecology, management, socio-cultural activities, built and natural heritage, and archaeology.

Case studies using examples from around the world illustrate theory in practice and bring the subject to life. Each chapter starts by outlining the 'aims' and questions at the end allow you to track your progress.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781444122404
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	09/30/2011
Series:	A Hodder Education Publication Series
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	432
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.10(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Gerhard Masselink, Professor of Coastal Geomorphology, University of Plymouth, UK
Michael Hughes, Senior Lecturer in Geosciences, University of Sydney, Australia
Jasper Knight, Lecturer in Geography, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand

Table of Contents

1. Coastal systems 2. Sea level 3. Tides 4. Waves 5. Sediments, boundary layers and transport 6. Fluvial-dominated coastal environments - deltas 7. Tide-dominated coastal environments - Estuaries 8. Wave-dominated coastal environments - beaches and barriers 9. Coastal sand dunes 10. Geologically-controlled coastal environments - rocky shorelines and coral coasts 11. Coasts and climate change 12. Future coasts