Barrier Beach
A depositional landform consisting of a linear sediment ridge oriented roughly parallel to the coast, enclosing a lagoon behind it. Barrier beaches form in moderate-energy environments with abundant sediment supply and developing vegetation communities.
Real World
Slapton Sands in Devon is a barrier beach enclosing Slapton Ley — England's largest freshwater lake — and has been repeatedly breached during storm events, including a significant breach during Storm Hannah in 2019.
Exam Focus
For 'assess' or 'evaluate' questions on barrier beaches, include both their sediment-trapping function and their vulnerability to sea-level rise as evidence.
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