Final answer:
In the context of the given sentence, 'detritus' refers to the trash and debris that resulted from the hurricane, obstructing passage along the beach. It encompasses both natural and man-made materials scattered by the storm's destructive forces, impacting local communities and ecological systems. Option B is correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word 'detrilus' in the context of the sentence 'There was so much DETRITUS from the hurricane that it was difficult to walk down the beach.' refers to the trash and debris left behind after a natural disaster like a hurricane. Hurricanes are known to leave behind a trail of destruction, which includes not just structural damage to buildings and infrastructure but also a significant amount of debris such as pieces of wood, glass, metal, and other materials.
This debris can include natural elements, such as sand and rocks that have been churned up by the strong winds and waves, as well as man-made items like parts of destroyed homes, boats, and other property. The reference texts illustrate scenarios where hurricanes and storms result in significant amounts of debris affecting urban settings and natural environments, such as beaches and marine life.
This debris can have far-reaching effects on local communities and ecosystems, posing hazards to humans and wildlife alike. For instance, aquatic debris impacts local waterways, threatening aquatic wildlife, and the integrity of marine and beach ecosystems. The dredging activities mentioned in an attempt to protect valuable beachfront may also disrupt the natural sediment balance, which can lead to increased debris on the shores.
Moreover, hurricane events such as Hurricane Katrina not only caused loss of life but also resulted in the accumulation of large amounts of debris, complicating rescue and cleanup operations. Overall, the presence of detrilus is a common consequence of hurricanes and has implications for both human society and natural habitats.
Therefore, the correct option for the meaning of 'detrilus' in the given sentence is B. trash and debris.