the wearing away of rocks along the coastline

refers to rocks that are less likely to be eroded or weathered

the process where cliffs move backward over time as erosion wears away the base of a cliff

The role of geology in coastal erosion

Geography

This unit teaches pupils about coastal processes and landforms. Pupils will learn about the physical processes operating at the coast and about the formation of distinctive landforms of coastal erosion and deposition. Pupils will also learn about the importance and options of coastal management.

Coastal landscapes

The name of a coastline that has alternative layers of hard and soft rock running perpendicular to the coastline is a {{}} coastline.

Waves hit the base of the cliff, applying pressure on the rock.

Wave energy erodes the rock at the base, forming a notch.

The notch deepens as waves continue to erode the rock.

The cliff above the notch becomes unstable and weakens.

Eventually, the cliff collapses due to lack of support.

This leaves a flat area called a wave-cut platform.

The process is repeated as the cliff retreats.

Correctly order the statements to show the formation of a wave-cut notch and platform

the Earth's physical structure and processes

Which of these are the main types of rock?

the breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces

the process of waves transporting sediment along the coast

Which answer correctly defines coastal erosion? 

What is the main factor that creates the waves we see at the seaside?

Climate change today is caused by human activities that increase {{}} gas levels.

the movement of water caused by wind blowing across the sea

an area of sand or pebbles along the shore

a part of the coastline that extends into the sea

a sheltered area of water, often between two headlands

an isolated pillar of rock near the coast, formed by erosion

Match the terms to the correct definition.

Starter Quiz