sandwaves

Sandwaves, also known as sand waves or sandwaves, are large, often sinuous, bedforms composed of sand that form on the seafloor or in riverbeds. They are dynamic features, constantly shifting and migrating due to the action of currents and waves. The formation of sandwaves is primarily driven by sediment transport, where flowing water or waves move sand particles along the bed. As sediment accumulates and is sculpted by the flow, these characteristic wave-like structures emerge.

The size of sandwaves can vary significantly, ranging from a few meters to hundreds of meters in wavelength and several meters in height. Their shape and orientation are influenced by the direction and strength of the dominant currents. In some environments, sandwaves can be quite extensive, covering large areas of the seabed. They are commonly found in shallow marine environments, estuaries, and large rivers where there is a sufficient supply of sand and moderate to strong currents.

The study of sandwaves is important for several reasons. They can impact navigation by altering water depth and creating navigational hazards. Understanding their migration patterns is crucial for coastal engineering projects, such as dredging operations and the placement of offshore structures. Furthermore, sandwaves can influence sediment distribution and the habitats of benthic organisms. Their formation and evolution are also of interest to geologists studying sediment transport processes and the history of seafloor environments.