Abstract:
The main objective of this paper is to identify the factors contributing in changing
the beach morphology in the Southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Data collected on 16
selected variables, which are directly related to the coastal processes along the
Southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Measurements have been taken from 50 locations
along the Southwest coast from Colombo to Matara with intervals of two miles
distance. Collected data has been analyzed by using following statistical methods:
(i) correlation methods and (ii) Principal Component Analysis.
The analysis of data clearly revealed that the main factors contributing to change
are (1) the depth of the shore (2) beach angle and (3) width of the beach of the
Southwest coast of Sri Lanka.
