2.2.5

Spits, Bars, & Sand Dunes

Test yourself

Bars, Spits and Sand Dunes

In addition to beaches, the deposition of sediment can create bars, spits, and sand dunes.

Illustrative background for SpitsIllustrative background for Spits ?? "content

Spits

  • Spits are piles of sand that create sheltered zones on the coast.
  • When the coast changes direction at an estuary (where a river meets the sea), longshore drift continues to move sediment across the inlet.
  • The river doesn't let the longshore drift completely join to the coast on the other side because the river has the energy to move the sediment.
  • Spits are the long fingers of sand sticking out from one side on a coastline. They often have marshland forming in the sheltered zone.
Illustrative background for BarsIllustrative background for Bars ?? "content

Bars

  • A bar is created when a spit grows across a bay.
  • Lagoons (saltwater pool separated from the ocean) are often created behind a bar.
Illustrative background for Sand dunesIllustrative background for Sand dunes ?? "content

Sand dunes

  • Sand dunes are hills of sand created at the back of a beach.
  • The wind blows deposited sand up the beach. Objects like wood, driftwood or human rubbish can block the wind, leading to hills of sand.
  • The hills of sand can allow plants and vegetation to grow.
  • This leads to more sand building up.
  • Older sand dunes (hills) are called mature dunes.
  • Newer sand dunes are called embryo dunes.

Jump to other topics

1Paper 1 - Changing River Environnments

2Paper 1 - Changing Coastal Environments

3Paper 1 - Changing Ecosystems

4Paper 1 - Tectonic Hazards

5Paper 1 - Climate Change

6Paper 2 - Changing Populations

7Paper 2 - Changing Towns & Cities

8Paper 2 - Development

9Paper 2 - Changing Economies

10Paper 2 - Resource Provision

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium