This is a narrow finger of sand or shingle jutting out into the sea from the land. They're common across the world.
1) As sediment is transported along the coast by longshore drift, it becomes deposited at a point where the coastline changes direction or where a river mouth occurs. 2) Gradually, as more and more sediment is deposited, the feature extends into the sea. 3) Away from the coast, the tip is affected by waves approaching from difference directions and the spit often becomes curved as a result. 4) Over time, the sediment breaks the surface to form new land and a spit is formed. It soon becomes colonised by grass and bushes, and eventually trees will grow. On the landward sheltered side where the water is calm, mudflats and salt marshes form - although these are close to sea level, so vulnerable to erosion, especially during storms. |
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