3.2 Coastal Processes Flashcards
1
Q
6 main ways waves erode the coastline
A
corrasion - abrasion hydraulic action cavitation wave quarrying solution attrition
2
Q
Define corrasion/abrasion
A
bits of rock and sediment transported by the waves smash and grind against rocks and cliffs, breaking bits off and smoothing surfaces
3
Q
Define hydraulic action
A
air in cracks in cliffs is compressed when waves crash in, the pressure exerted by the compressed air breaks off rock pieces
4
Q
Define cavitation
A
as waves recede, the compressed air expands violently, again exerting pressure on the rock and causing pieces to break off
5
Q
Define wave quarrying
A
the energy of a wave as it breaks against a cliff is enough to detach bits of rock
