If you observe water moving down the coast, pushed by waves at an angle and assisted by wind, you are viewing a _____________________ current.

The observed water movement down the coast, influenced by waves at an angle and assisted by wind, describes a longshore current. Longshore currents occur when waves hit the shore at an angle, creating a flow of water parallel to the coastline. As the waves approach the shore, they can move sediment and carry water along the beach, contributing to the transport of sand and influencing coastal erosion and deposition patterns.

Understanding the dynamics of longshore currents is essential for divers and beachgoers, as they can affect navigation, swimming safety, and the overall beach environment. In contrast, rip currents are strong, narrow channels of water that flow away from the shore, tidal currents are influenced by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun leading to regular changes in water levels, and upwelling refers to the process where deeper, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, often occurring due to wind patterns.