Relationship Between Concavity and Convexity of a Coast and Erosion and Accretion Patterns

Abstract

This study investigates whether or not there is a distinct relationship between a coastline's configuration (concavity/convexity) and its tendency toward either erosion or accretion. Empirical erosion/accretion data from Guyana's Demerara coast are analyzed using coastal classification averages and linear regression. The results show no systematic linear relationship between a coast's angular measure of concavity and convexity and its tendency to either erode or accrete. The findings of the study suggest that convex coasts on the whole may have a greater tendency toward accretion than either straight or concave coasts. Various reasons can be given as to why Guyana's coast does not conform to the established idea of increased accretion at concave-shaped sites and greater erosion at convex-shaped sites. One possible explanation lies with the occurrence of repeated patterns of mud hank evolution, migration and stabilization which affect the time when and the locations where the Guyana coast is being eroded or aggraded.