An investigation studying the morphological adjustment of a macrotidal gravel beach over a tidal cycle

In this investigation fixed profiles on two gravel beaches in South Devon, U.K were surveyed daily, at low tide for two weeks over a neap-neap tide cycle in order to achieve the following aims; I. To examine the morphological adjustment that occurs on a gravel beach over a full tidal cycle II. To relate any changes in the distribution of sediment with that of morphological changes III. To apply a statistical test that will determine whether; a) Volumetric changes between the two study sites is significant b) If the conditions experienced over the study period are significantly different from past conditions. Gravel Beaches are formed through the abundance of gravel material in the coastal zone. Many reasons for their formation have been investigated ranging from past glaciations, continental shelf re-working and river discharge. When compared to smaller grained sandy beaches, there is paucity in the amount of research carried out on gravel beaches, a fact that is pointed out by many authors (Jennings and Schiewster, 2002; Chadwick et al, 2005; Austin and Masselink, 2006; Buscombe and Masselink, 2006; Masselink et al, 2010). A comparison of the classification schemes used in each beach type highlights the disparity in research. The widely used classification scheme formulated by Jennings and Schiewster (2002) is based on field observations, whereas classification schemes associated with beaches studied by Wright and Short (1985), and Masselink and Short (1993) are based on parameters that can be calculated (dimensionless fall velocity and the dimensionless fall velocity along with tide range parameter, respectively). Many aspects of gravel beach knowledge and research are still being developed, whereas there is a well developed knowledge base established in sandy beach research. Gravel beaches are important as they occupy many high latitude coastlines and often act as significant protection for low-lying coastal zones (e.g., Chadwick et al, 2005). Therefore the primary reason for this investigation was to learn more about the morphodynamic adjustment of gravel beaches over a full tidal cycle and to add to the evidence base for this area. This was undertaken with recognition that the range of scientific study is comparably low compared to research undertaken on sandy beaches.Faculty of Scienc