The term “beach profile” refers to a cross-sectional trace of the beach perpendicular to the high-tide shoreline and extends from the backshore cliff or dune to the inner continental shelf or a location where waves and currents do not transport sediment to and from the beach.

What is the purpose of a beach profile?

Beach profiles Split the line into segments where the slope angle changes. Each reading is taken from from break of slope to break of slope. Measuring beach gradient by Field Studies Council / CC BY. Beach profiles can also be used to calculate cross-sectional area and the amount of beach material present.

What affects a beach profile?

Beach Morphology and Sediment Profiles Constructive waves alter beach morphology by causing net movement of sediment up the beach, steeping the beach profile. Swash carries sediment of all sizes up the beach, but weaker backwash can only transport smaller particles down the beach.