The Beach

[altekake]

I have asked this question before, but didn't get a satisfactory answer. "When walking on the beach at the water's edge, why is some sand hard and compacted while other is soft and waterlogged? It is the same time, tide, wave action and wind"

[seadogg]

It can depend on the structure of the beach. Sand is the remains of rocks which were eroded and transported and as you might expect, the hard and therefore durable bits are more likely to form he grains (quartz). This (arenaceous) material will be free draining and the sand will dry out quickly. A beach which contains more clayey (argillaceous) material will be less free draining and when waterlogged will not support people walking on it so well.

[altekake]

Thanks seadogg, that sounds more feasible than previous answers

[seadogg]

Glad you find it saisfactory altekake. If you ever get stuck in quicksand (heaven forbid) you will see what I mean.

[Prudie]

I remember seeing a demonstration years ago explaining quicksand (which is a more severe form of the soft watery sand you describe). The reason it behaved as it did was because water was flowing upwards through it. Could be an explanation.

[joggerjayne]

If you're stuck in quicksand, throw yourself on the floor.

You can't walk in it, but you can "swim" across it.

If this advice ever saves your life, you owe me a gin and tonic.

[seadogg]

and gently rotate your limbs while flat out. This will soften the surface so you can escape. Mines a double

[altekake]

But if I don't make it, you guys will have to drink to me!!!

[joggerjayne]

Can we put them on your tab?

[altekake]

with the greatest of pleasure, have it on me!!! I will probably get that sinking feeling when I get the bill!

[joggerjayne]

BBut you won't get the bill, alte.

We only drink to you, and put it on your tab, if you "don't make it".

(doesn't that mean you're at the bottom of the quicksand?)

(sorry to be gloomy, and all that)

[altekake]

My being Jewish, we believe that our soul doesn't leave the body immediately, but hovers around, so mine will pay the bill --- lol! {:+)

[seadogg]

Don't wish to spoil the drinks party but you cannot drown in quicksand, unless it holds you half buried till the incoming tide gets you before the RNLI arrives. We have hovercraft for this job.

[altekake]

whew, what a relief. Must leave it at that cos here in SA it is 23h00 and way past an old man's bed time!

[joggerjayne]

Goodnight, Alte ... x

[altekake]

You sound sweet, joggerjayne! Good night.