Erosion of Cliffs & Wave-Cut Platforms

Question 1

What are the main processes of coastal erosion?

Answer 1

Hydraulic action (water pressure), abrasion (rock scraping), attrition (rock collision), and solution (dissolving minerals).

Question 2

Describe how wave-cut platforms form.

Answer 2

Waves erode the cliff base, causing collapse. The retreating cliff leaves a flat rock surface at low tide – a wave-cut platform.

Question 3

How does rock type affect cliff erosion?

Answer 3

Hard rock (limestone, granite) erodes slowly, forming steep cliffs. Soft rock (clay, sandstone) erodes quickly, creating gentler slopes.

Question 4

What is undercutting, and how does it contribute to cliff collapse?

Answer 4

Waves erode the cliff base, creating an overhang that collapses due to gravity, leading to cliff retreat.

Question 5

How does human activity impact coastal erosion?

Answer 5

Coastal defenses, urbanization, and dredging can accelerate or slow erosion by altering natural wave energy and sediment flow.