An analytical model of dune erosion was developed based on impact theory, where the weight of eroded material is assumed proportional to the impact force from waves hitting the dune. The model was validated with data from several laboratory and field studies on dune erosion covering a wide range of hydrodynamic, sediment, and geometric conditions. Overwash was then included in the model and the evolution of a rectangular-shaped dune subject to both wave impact and overwash was investigated. Finally, an analytical solution for the case of a schematized barrier islands exposed to overwash was developed. Analytical models are useful in the initial stage of a project when approximate estimates are required.
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