Four Key Factors that Affect the Erosion of the Coastline

Question 1

rock type

Answer 1

chalks and limestone can form steep cliffs, whereas clays and softer rock form large bays

Question 2

rock structure

Answer 2

a discordant coastline, where rocks are at an angle to the edge of the coastline, will erode at different rates

Question 3

the shape of the coastline

Answer 3

headlands of a coastline are exposed to the full force of destructive waves. bays are more sheltered from the wave energy because of wave refraction, so erosion is slower

Question 4

the type of wave

Answer 4

the amount of energy a wave has helps determine the rate of erosion