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Sediment Analysis lab Part II. Hawaiian Mystery Sands. Use the following info to. Help you identify from which of the following 6 beaches the “mystery” samples came Help you explain what characteristics (composition, grain-size, etc.) of the mystery samples helped you identify its beach.
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Sediment Analysis labPart II Hawaiian Mystery Sands
Use the following info to • Help you identify from which of the following 6 beaches the “mystery” samples came • Help you explain what characteristics (composition, grain-size, etc.) of the mystery samples helped you identify its beach.
The distinctive red sand of Kaihalulu Beach (near Hana on Maui’s eastern end) comes from the high iron oxide (rust) content in the volcanic cinders of nearby Ka‘uiki Hill.
The fine white sand of Kailua Beach on the windward coast of O‘ahuis made from broken down bits of coral reef and marine shells and skeletons. In the shelter of a broad fringing reef, this beach’s gentle waves make it a favorite for family recreation.
Broken down bits of lava rock form the famous black sand beaches on the southeast coast of the island of Hawai‘i. As hot lava from Kilauea and Mauna Loa pours into cool ocean water, steam explosions blast the lava apart, forming fine grains of basalt rock sand.
The famous green sand of Papakulea Beach near the South Point of the island of Hawai‘i comes from olivine, a common mineral found in volcanic rocks. This side of the island is too young to have developed coral reefs, so recent lava flows are the only source of sand.
Bits of broken reef combined with eroded lava rock from nearby Koko Crater form the sand on Sandy Beach, a popular bodysurfing spot on the southeastern tip of O‘ahu. The relentless waves and strong current constantly break down new material. They carry away the fine sand grains, leaving coarse sand.
A wide variety of materials and organisms dislodged from the surrounding reefs form the sand at Sunset Beach on the North Shore of O‘ahu. This calm summer beach transforms into a surfing beach in the winter, when huge waves pulverize the reef and its attached animals.