Spit - GCSE Geography Definition

In GCSE Geography, a "spit" is a long, narrow piece of land made of sand or shingle that juts out into the sea from the coast. Spits are formed by the process of longshore drift, where waves move sediment along the shoreline and deposit it. Over time, this sediment builds up and extends into the water to create the spit. Spits often curve at the end due to changes in wind and wave direction. They can protect the coast by acting as a barrier against waves and tides, and can shelter a calm water area behind them called a lagoon. Spits are common features in coastal landscapes and are important for both natural habitats and human activities like tourism.