Final answer:
Tidal currents are prevalent near coastlines and consist of ebb and flood currents, playing a crucial role in sediment transport and the shaping of coastal features.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tidal currents are found near the coastline, and have an ebb current and a flood current. These are the dominant currents in the nearshore zone; typically located within the area that extends from the low-tide line to beyond where waves significantly impact sedimentation, commonly known as the breaker zone. Tidal currents play an essential role in the transport of sediments along coastlines and can contribute to the formation of various coastal features such as tidal flats, marshes, and deltas. These currents are affected by the tides, and are characterized by their cyclical movement: the ebb current flows seaward when the tide is falling, and the flood current moves landward during a rising tide.
Particularly, when considering the sediment transport by tidal currents, you may notice areas like Island Beach State Park, New Jersey, where well-sorted gravel and sand are prevalent, indicative of a high-energy environment. In contrast, environments like the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia are known for their silt and clay deposits, creating tidal flats in these lower energy areas.
The zone between the high and low tide lines, known as the foreshore or beach face, is regularly wetted by the ocean and is a prime area for witnessing the effects of these tidal currents.