Morphology and grain-size characteristics of a log-spiral beach at Nagwa (Diu), West coast of India

Abstract

Sediment samples collected along 6 beach profiles of a log-spiral shaped beach and nearby dunes have been studied for particle size distribution in relation to wave refraction patterns. The results reveal that the foreshore sediments are in the coarse to fine sand grade (M Γ 0.84 to 2.96 φ), well to poorly sorted 0.45 to 1.73 φ) and positive to negatively skewed (0.25 to -0.54 ski) classes. Sediments at profile st 1 in E are coarser and poorly sorted while they are fine-grained and better sorted in W as well as along the curved section of the beach. Alongshore variations in grain-size characteristics of beach sediments which have been discussed in relation to beach topography, wave induced littoral flows and prevaling meteorological and oceanographic conditions indicate clearly the suitability of the area close to st 6 in the curved part of the bay for developmental activities related to coastal zone.