Destructive and Constructive Waves

Constructive waves

Waves which build up the coast (they deposit more material than they erode)

Destructive waves

Waves which carry out erosional processes

Fetch

The distance of water over which wind is blown to produce a wave

Wind

The force of the wind on the water's surface creates waves

How does fetch affect destructive waves?

Greater fetch = larger and more powerful

4 features of destructive waves

High frequency High and steep Backwash stronger than swash Removes material from the coast

4 features of constructive waves

Low frequency Low and long Swash is stronger than backwash Carries material up the coast and deposits it

How does wind and fetch affect constructive waves?

Made by weaker winds and shorter fetches

How does wind affect destructive waves?

Stronger wind = larger and more powerful