Which type of beach has a slope greater than 30 degrees?

Prepare for the USCG Marine Science Technician SWE. Study with quizzes, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

Beaches with a slope greater than 30 degrees are typically characterized by their steep and rugged terrain, which is commonly found in exposed rocky cliffs. These cliffs arise from erosion and geological processes that create steep rock formations along the coastline. The angle of these cliffs contributes to their classification as a different type of shoreline, one that is less hospitable to sediment accumulation and more prone to erosion.

In contrast, fine grain beaches, sandy shorelines, and exposed tidal flats generally exhibit much shallower slopes. Fine grain beaches tend to have gentler inclines due to the small particle size, allowing for gradual accumulation of sediments. Sandy shorelines are often more gently sloping as well, as they are composed of larger particles that shift and settle, forming a more gradual transition from water to land. Exposed tidal flats, characterized by extensive intertidal zones, are typically flat and only slightly sloped, designed to accommodate tidal changes and enabling the growth of various flora and fauna.

Thus, the unique geomorphological features of an exposed rocky cliff make it the type of beach that can have significantly steeper slopes, exceeding 30 degrees.

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