The validity of the concept of coastal equilibritun depends upon a pnd of the ekistence of equilibrium. In addition, the methods of calculating the actual equilibrium profile and the response time are rempred. This study evaluates equilibriuzn conditions using evidence from EOF (empirical orthogonal function) analysis of the coased profile data (bed slopes and associated elevations) obtained from Poole and Christchurch Bays, southem England. The preliminary results show tha the larges eigenvalue is much greater than the other eigenvalues and the temporally-related eigenfunction is staionary;thes observation implies the existence of wilibrium. Further, the spatially-related eigenfunction associated with the largest eigenvalue is used to calculate the actual beach profile at equilibrium. Although the temporal eigenfopction may nuctuate, it recovers rapidly, indicating tha the response time is short. However, further studies are required to determine the response hme accurately.
