Erosion and Landforms

Lesson ObjectivesLesson Objectives

This lesson we will be looking at the process of erosion and how it shapes our coastline.

By the end of the lesson you should be able to:• Name the four processes of coastal erosion• Describe what each of these processes is• Explain what landforms result from erosion and

why

Hydraulic ActionHydraulic Action

The force of the water hitting the cliffs, often forcing air pockets

into cracks in the rocks

AbrasionAbrasion

Caused by waves picking up stones and hurling them at the

cliff face, wearing it away.

AttritionAttrition

Any material, but usually rocks and pebbles will become

rounder and smaller over time as it collides with other rocks

and pebbles.

CorrosionCorrosion

The dissolving of rocks and minerals by sea water.

Headland

Bay

Headlands and Bays

Is all to do with geology!

Geology = the type of rock

Soft rocks get eroded quickly creating bays

Hard rocks erode more slowly creating headlands

Headlands and BaysIs all to do with geology!

Geology = the type of rock

Soft rocks get eroded quickly creating bays

Hard rocks erode more slowly creating headlands

Cave, Arch, Stack, StumpCave, Arch, Stack, Stump

Key WordsKey WordsHydraulic Action - The force of the water hitting the cliffs,

often forcing air pockets into cracks in the rocks

Abrasion - Caused by waves picking up stones and hurling them at the cliff face, wearing it away.

Attrition - Any material, but usually rocks and pebbles will become rounder and smaller over time as it collides with other rocks and pebbles.

Corrosion - The dissolving of rocks and minerals by sea water.

Key WordsKey Words

Cave – a fracture in the rock that has been widened to form a deep hole in the cliff

Arch – when two caves meet in the middle a gap is formed in the cliff

Stack – a pillar of rock that is left over when the arch collapses due to gravity

Stump – A small piece of rock that just sticks up out of the ocean; what is left once the stack falls over

Geology – the type of rock