原题
Coastal Erosion Challenges
Coastal erosion, the gradual loss of shoreline due to natural forces, poses challenges worldwide. Waves, currents, and rising sea levels are primary contributors to the phenomenon. Strong storms can exacerbate erosion, reshaping coastlines abruptly. For countries with extensive coastal zones, such as Bangladesh and the Netherlands, managing erosion is not only an environmental issue but also an economic and social one. Coastal erosion threatens infrastructure, transportation, and residential areas, necessitating costly investments in protective measures.
One strategy to combat erosion is beach nourishment, the addition of sand or sediment to shorelines. While this method provides short-term benefits, frequent replenishment is required. Seawalls and breakwaters, solid structures designed to deflect wave energy and protect coastlines, are longer-term solutions but can alter natural sediment movement, unintentionally accelerating erosion in nearby areas.
Recent studies suggest that some natural approaches may be more sustainable. For instance, mangrove forests and dune systems serve as buffers, reducing wave energy before it reaches populated areas. Mangroves not only provide erosion control but also support diverse ecosystems. However, such methods require extensive space and careful planning, making them unsuitable for heavily urbanized coastal zones. This highlights the tension between maintaining natural landscapes and safeguarding human developments along vulnerable coastlines.
The word "exacerbate" in the passage is closest in meaning to
Acause
Bcontribute to
Ccontrol
Dincrease
正确答案：D
解题思路
老师暂未填写解题思路。