estuaries

Front

What is an estuary?

Back

An estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers and streams meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean.

Front

What is salinity stratification in an estuary?

Back

Salinity stratification refers to the layering of water in an estuary based on salinity levels, where saltwater is denser and often found below freshwater.

Front

Where is salinity typically greater in an estuary?

Back

Salinity is typically greater near the bottom of the estuary.

Front

What type of estuary is formed by the retreat of glaciers?

Back

A fjord is an estuary formed as deep valleys are cut by retreating glaciers.

Front

What is a tectonic estuary?

Back

A tectonic estuary is formed by land sinking due to movements of the Earth's crust.

Front

What is a delta?

Back

A delta is a landform created by the deposition of sediment carried by a river as the flow velocity decreases upon entering standing water.

Front

What is a coastal plain estuary?

Back

A coastal plain estuary is formed when sea levels rise and flood existing river valleys.

Front

What is a bar-built estuary?

Back

A bar-built estuary is formed when a sandbar or barrier island separates a body of water from the ocean.

Front

What is a salt wedge?

Back

A salt wedge is a phenomenon in estuaries where denser saltwater intrudes beneath lighter freshwater, creating distinct layers.

Front

What is the mouth of an estuary?

Back

The mouth of an estuary is the area where the estuary opens into the ocean.