Beach processes and sedimentation /

Komar's updated and expanded edition (1st ed., CH, Dec'76) has been long awaited. It provides an excellent overview of many of the recent advances in the engineering and scientific research on beach environments. Komar divides the coverage of this vast research field among 12 chapters, each containing an extensive reference list of recent and classical papers. The broad topical fields include the geomorphology of eroding and accreting coasts; tidal and sea-level oscillations; wave generation and surf-zone processes; beach morphology, profiles, and sediments; near shore morphodynamics; near shore currents and sediment transport; modeling shorelines; and coastal protection. In most cases, Komar relies on a mathematical approach to explicate processes and assumes knowledge of basic principles of physics, making some parts of the book daunting for those not well versed in these areas. Explanations are stark and replete with equations. However, this should not deter researchers and serious students of shoreline processes from using the book, because they will benefit immensely from a close study of each chapter's contents. The book is profusely illustrated, largely with line drawings and graphs that are adequate, and a few black-and-white photographs. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals. P. R. Pinet; Colgate University