Spits

Question 1

Stage 1 formation of spits

Answer 1

Longshore drift deposits material across the river mouth, leaving a bank of sand and shingle sticking out into the sea

Question 2

Stage 2 formation of spits

Answer 2

Occasional changes to the dominant wind and wave direction lead to a spit having a curved end (recurved end)

Question 3

Stage 3 formation of spits

Answer 3

Recurved ends are abandoned as the waves return to their original direction

Question 4

Stage 4 formation of spits

Answer 4

Area behind the spit is sheltered from the waves and often develops into mudflats and salt marshes.