Coastal Processes

Question 1

Solution

Answer 1

Dissolved substances carried by the water e.g limestone in water

Question 2

Saltation

Answer 2

Larger particles such as pebbles or gravel that are too heavy for suspension so they use the force of the water to bounce along the sea bed.

Question 3

Suspension

Answer 3

Very fine material such as silt and clay particles that are whipped up by turbulence and carried along in the water. Most eroded material is transported this way.

Question 4

Traction

Answer 4

Very large particles e.g boulders that are pushed along the seabed by the force of the water.

Question 5

Longshore drift

Answer 5

The movement of water and sediment down a beach caused by waves coming in to shore at an angle.

Question 6

What is sub-aerial weathering?

Answer 6

Sub-aerial weathering is the gradual breakdown of rock by agents (ice, salt, acids and plant roots) and weakening of cliffs, causing them to become more vulnerable to erosion.

Question 7

Hydraulic action

Answer 7

The force of the water against the cliffs can cause air to be trapped in cracks and crevices. The pressure weakens the cliffs and gradually wears it away.

Question 8

Wave quarrying

Answer 8

More resistant rocks are pounded against each other in breaking waves causing the breakdown of these materials.