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Where do beaches come from?

We investigate bucketloads of beach-based science. We dig into how beaches form, we find out about the waves that hit the atmosphere, and we learn why sand is disappearing.

It’s August, and in the northern hemisphere, many people are hitting the beach to escape the summer heat. And that inspired us to investigate bucketloads of beach-based science.

First up, we find out about the forces that build and shape the seaside.

Next, we discover that the waves from the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai eruption reached the atmosphere.

Speaking of waves, we’re joined by Dr Edward Hurme from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behaviour, who tells us about his research into surfing bats.

And why are beaches disappearing?

All that, plus many more Unexpected Elements.

Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Tristan Ahtone and Phillys Mwatee
Producers: Alice Lipscombe-Southwell, with Imaan Moin, Robbie Wojciechowski and Lucy Davies

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49 minutes

Last on

Sun 31 Aug 2025 19:06GMT

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  • Fri 29 Aug 2025 09:06GMT
  • Fri 29 Aug 2025 23:06GMT
  • Sat 30 Aug 2025 03:06GMT
  • Sat 30 Aug 2025 14:06GMT
  • Sun 31 Aug 2025 19:06GMT

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