Revision Notes

Formation of Spits

Points AB, and C show the progression of the spit’s formation. The curved ends are explained in point 6.

1. Fetch – direction of prevailing winds (and therefore waves) in approaching the beach.

2. Direction of Long-Shore Drift.

3. Salt Marsh

4. Original Coastline

5. River Estuary

6. Short term changes in wind and wave direction causing the curved ends to the spit.

7. Fastest current at the centre of the river.