What Is a Burmese Python? Learn about this Invasive Species
What Is a Burm?
A berm is a terrace of a beach that forms in the backshore, above the water level at high tide.
It is created by low-energy waves depositing material and is commonly found on beaches with coarse sand.
Berms have a change in slope at their seaward edge and a flat or reverse-sloped platform that is slightly higher than the mean high-water level.
They can be several meters wide and are often destroyed by high storm waves in the winter.
Berms are also used for erosion control, sedimentation, and in various other applications such as military engineering, coastal geography, construction, and environmental spill containment.
Key Points:
- A berm is a terrace of a beach that forms in the backshore, above the water level at high tide.
- It is created by low-energy waves depositing material and is commonly found on beaches with coarse sand.
- Berms have a change in slope at their seaward edge and a flat or reverse-sloped platform that is slightly higher than the mean high-water level.
- They can be several meters wide and are often destroyed by high storm waves in the winter.
- Berms are also used for erosion control, sedimentation, and in various other applications such as military engineering, coastal geography, construction, and environmental spill containment.
Did You Know?
1. A Burm is a type of large, heavy snake enclosure primarily used for housing and displaying pythons and boas.
2. The term “Burm” originated from the Burmese Python, a species native to Southeast Asia, specifically Myanmar (formerly known as Burma).
3. Burms are constructed with special attention to heat retention and security, usually made of wood or melamine, with glass doors and secure locking mechanisms.
4. Burm enclosures typically have thermal gradients, with one side of the cage being warmer than the other, allowing the snake to regulate its body temperature by moving from one side to the other.
5. Some Burms have specially designed hide boxes inside, which provide a secure hiding place for the snake, allowing it to feel safe and secure while resting or shedding its skin.
Coastal Berms: Formation And Characteristics
Coastal berms, also known as beach berms, are terraces that develop in the backshore area of a beach, above the water level at high tide. These formations are typically found on beaches with coarse sand and are created by the deposition of material from low-energy waves.
One distinguishing feature of coastal berms is the change in slope at their seaward edge. Additionally, they have a flat or even reverse-sloped platform slightly above the mean high-water level.
During the summer months, some beaches experience the formation of berms that can span several meters in width. However, the destructive power of high storm waves in the winter can erase these temporary structures.
It’s important to note that this continuous cycle of formation and destruction of coastal berms plays a significant role in shaping coastal ecosystems and shoreline morphology.
Historical Use Of Berms In Military Engineering
While coastal berms provide insights into coastal geography, the term ‘berm’ has a historical significance in military engineering. In medieval times, a berm was a level space located between a defensive wall and a surrounding ditch or moat. This construction technique aimed to reduce soil pressure on the walls and prevent debris from falling into the ditch or moat.
In modern military engineering, the meaning of berm has evolved. It now refers to an earthen or sod wall or parapet constructed beside a ditch. Often, the soil used to build the berm is obtained from the ditch itself. Beyond its military applications, the concept of berms has influenced various disciplines and found practical use in different sectors.
Berms In Coastal Geography: Erosion Control And Sedimentation
The impact of berms extends beyond defense and warfare. In coastal geography, these structures take the form of banks of sand or gravel that run parallel to the shoreline. They are created by the continuous action of waves.
Berms play a crucial role in erosion control and sedimentation processes that shape coastal landscapes.
By acting as natural barriers, berms work to protect the coastlines from erosion caused by wave action. They safeguard vulnerable landscapes and create a buffer against the erosive power of waves, contributing to the overall stability of coastal ecosystems.
Furthermore, berms play a crucial role in the natural process of sediment deposition, helping maintain the delicate balance of sand and gravel distribution along shorelines.
- Berms act as natural barriers against erosion caused by wave action.
- They safeguard vulnerable landscapes.
- Berms create a buffer against the erosive power of waves.
- They contribute to the overall stability of coastal ecosystems.
- Berms help maintain the delicate balance of sand and gravel distribution along shorelines.
“Berms play a crucial role in erosion control and sedimentation processes that shape coastal landscapes.”
Modern Applications Of Berms: Construction And Sports
Berms are physical barriers used in various modern applications, showcasing their versatility and value across different fields. In construction, berms serve multiple purposes, such as noise reduction and slope stabilization. Leveraging the natural stability and compactness of the earthen structure, berms prove to be highly efficient in reducing noise pollution and ensuring stability on sloped terrains.
Sports enthusiasts may already be acquainted with berms through disciplines like snowboard cross and mountain biking. In these sports, berms refer to walls of snow or banked turns formed by soil. These purposely constructed features offer athletes enhanced control and support as they navigate through challenging terrains.
To summarize:
- Berms are physical barriers with versatile applications
- They are used in construction for noise reduction and slope stabilization
- Berms leverage the natural stability and compactness of earthen structures
- Berms in snowboard cross and mountain biking provide enhanced control and support for athletes.
Diverse Uses Of Berms: From Environmental Safety To Physical Security
Beyond their applications in coastal protection and construction, berms have proven to be valuable tools in diverse areas. For instance, after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010, berms were constructed as a means to prevent oil from reaching Louisiana wetlands. These man-made barriers played a vital role in minimizing the impact of the disaster on sensitive ecosystems.
The use of berms extends to the realm of particle accelerator tunnels, where they serve as radiation shielding. In open-pit mining, berms are employed as safety measures to prevent accidents and protect workers. Physical security systems also incorporate berms to exclude hostile vehicles and slow down potential attackers, providing an added layer of protection.
Furthermore, berms find relevance in environmental safety. They are utilized for spill containment and liquid spill control, preventing hazardous substances from contaminating the surroundings and causing ecological damage.
From coastal geography and military engineering to environmental protection and sports, the versatility of berms is undeniable. Whether they form naturally on beaches or are constructed intentionally, berms serve a range of purposes, displaying their importance in various industries. Understanding the characteristics and applications of berms allows us to appreciate the role they play in shaping our environment, providing safety measures, and aiding in the sustainable development of our infrastructure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a berm?
The purpose of a berm is to act as a barrier to prevent stormwater runoff from entering a sensitive area. These ridges are constructed using materials such as compacted soil, loose gravel, stone, or crushed rock. By intercepting the runoff, berms ensure that the water is directed towards a controlled or stabilized drainage outlet, helping to prevent erosion and protect the surrounding environment.
What does berm mean road?
A berm on a road refers to the shoulder or the side of the road. It is a section of the road that is slightly elevated and serves multiple purposes. One of its main functions is to provide additional space for vehicles to pull over in case of emergencies or for parking. Additionally, berms can act as a protective barrier, helping to prevent road runoff and erosion. They can also be landscaped and designed with plants and shrubs to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the road.
What is a berm in geology?
In geology, a berm refers to a raised terrace on a beach, located above the water level during high tide. It typically forms on beaches with coarse sand and is a result of the deposition of materials by low-energy waves. This natural feature acts as a protective barrier against erosion, helping to stabilize the shoreline and providing a habitat for various beach-dwelling organisms. Berms contribute to the dynamic and ever-changing nature of coastal landscapes, while also serving a crucial ecological role in preserving the delicate balance of beach ecosystems.
What is a berm in the UK?
In the context of the UK, a berm refers to a flat or elevated land strip that is commonly created to serve as a division or safeguard for an area. It can be formed by depositing sand or other materials, like in the case of berms or sand bars in shallow water, or it can be deliberately constructed to protect residences from potential flooding. Berms therefore play a crucial role in geography as they shape and define specific areas of land, providing both separation and protection where needed.