Longshore Transport |
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Longshore transport is a result of littoral currents moving sediment along the shoreline. At Assateague Island, longshore transport is generally from the north to the south. Therefore, when the longshore currents hit the first northern jetty, they lose energy and sand is deposited at Ocean City. The currents continue southward, and erode sand along Assateague Island.
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Washover and Rollover |
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Sediment Movement |
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Sediment is transported along the coast by longshore transport. Depending on the size of the sediment particle and the energy in the currents, the sediment will travel in different methods. One method is traction where sediment particles will slide along the ocean floor. Another method is by saltation, where particles "jump" or be suspended for some time as they are transported. The third method is by suspension, which is where sediment particles will be fully suspended in the current.
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