Coastal processes refer to the natural actions that shape coastlines, including erosion, sediment transport, and deposition. Waves, driven by wind, continuously crash against the shore, wearing away rocks and sand. This erosion can create features like cliffs and beaches, while sediment is carried along the coast by currents.
Tides, caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun, also influence coastal processes. As water levels rise and fall, they expose different areas of the shore, allowing for the movement of sediments. Additionally, human activities, such as construction and dredging, can impact these natural processes, altering the coastal landscape.