Which statement BEST describes a way that the barrier islands protect the mainland? *

A. They channel ocean saltwater away from inland rivers, creek, and streams.

B. They lower tides so that Georgia does not experience damage from high tides.

C. They block storms, such as hurricanes and nor'easters, from reaching the mainland.

D. They block much of the wind, sands, and water that could cause erosion on the mainland.

Now you can learn about the barrier islands.

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To determine the best answer that describes a way barrier islands protect the mainland, let's analyze each option:

A. They channel ocean saltwater away from inland rivers, creeks, and streams: This statement is not entirely accurate. Barrier islands may contribute to the separation of the ocean and inland water bodies, but they do not actively channel saltwater away.

B. They lower tides so that Georgia does not experience damage from high tides: Barrier islands do not have the ability to lower tides. Tides are primarily influenced by the gravitational forces of the moon and the sun.

C. They block storms, such as hurricanes and nor'easters, from reaching the mainland: This statement is partially correct. Barrier islands act as a buffer between the mainland and the open ocean, reducing the impact of storms by absorbing the initial force of wind and waves.

D. They block much of the wind, sands, and water that could cause erosion on the mainland: This statement is also true. Barrier islands act as a physical barrier, absorbing the energy of winds, sands, and water flow, which helps prevent erosion on the mainland.

From these options, the statement that BEST describes a way barrier islands protect the mainland is:

D. They block much of the wind, sands, and water that could cause erosion on the mainland.