Waves, Tides, and the Coastal Environments
Academic Media Network
From the gentle ebb and flow of a neap tide to the crashing force of mammoth breakers, the Earth's ocean waters are constantly at work, shaping and eroding beaches, fjords, sea cliffs, and other geographical features. This program shows how waves, currents, and tides interact dynamically with the planet's coastal environments. Presenting vital information on emergent and submergent coastlines, the video shows how gravitational pull influences tides, how waves form, and how refraction affects the impact of wave energy on the shore. While viewers learn about many gradual coastline-changing processes, they will also explore more abrupt changes to the landscape caused by seismic activity, volcanic eruptions, and other forces. Biomes such as coral reef systems and mangrove habitats are also examined. (25 minutes)