COASTS: Processes Flashcards
What is hydraulic action? (a type of erosion)
When the pressure of water moves rocks and sand. Wave acts as a hammer on solid rocks. Water can trap air in joints creating a force.
What is abrasion? (a type of erosion)
When waves use pebbles and sand as a tool to wear away rock. Creates smooth edges. Pebbles thrown against cliff, eroding it.
What is attrition? (a type of erosion)
When pebbles erode as they collide with each other through transportation in swash and backwash. Pebbles become smaller and rounder.
What is physical weathering?
Cracking and disintegration of rocks into small and large fragments…
- Pressure release, after ice &/or rock is removed the rock underneath expands, cracks and disintegrates.
- Temperature change, cooling/heating causing expansion/contraction.
- Crystallisation, ice crystals grow by freezing.
What is chemical weathering?
The breakdown of rocks changes chemical compounds. The new compounds are soluble meaning they dissolve in water and are lost when it rains.
What is biological weathering?
Plant and animal growth and human impacts…
- Burrowing animals
- Walkers on cliff path
- Plant and tree root action
What is suspension (type of transportation)?
When small grains are bounced in energy of waves.
What is saltation (type of transportation)?
When pebbles are bounced along waves, carried by water.
What is traction (type of transportation)?
When large pebbles are dragged along the sea bed.
