3.2.4

Processes of Erosion

Test yourself

Processes of Erosion

Erosion is the wearing away of rock by natural forces like waves or wind. The sea can build up a lot of energy and move quickly with a lot of force. This can make erosion happen faster. The types of erosion that affect coasts are:

Illustrative background for Hydraulic powerIllustrative background for Hydraulic power ?? "content

Hydraulic power

  • Hydraulic action is where the force of waves hits against a cliff face and causes rock to break off.
Illustrative background for AbrasionIllustrative background for Abrasion ?? "content

Abrasion

  • Abrasion is where pieces of material are picked up by waves and hit or scrape against the sea bed or the side of a cliff.
  • This wears away the sea bed or cliff because the material acts like sandpaper.
Illustrative background for AttritionIllustrative background for Attrition ?? "content

Attrition

  • Attrition is where different bits of material carried by waves in seawater hit against each other.
  • This causes them to break apart but also become smaller and more rounded.
Illustrative background for SolutionIllustrative background for Solution ?? "content

Solution

  • Solution is where weak acids in seawater dissolve soluble rocks like chalk and limestone.

Jump to other topics

1The Challenge of Natural Hazards

1.1Natural Hazards

1.2Tectonic Hazards

1.3Weather Hazards

1.4Climate Change

2The Living World

3Physical Landscapes in the UK

3.1The UK Physical Landscape

3.2Coastal Landscapes in the UK

3.3River Landscapes in the UK

3.4Glacial Landscapes in the UK

4Urban Issues & Challenges

5The Changing Economic World

6The Challenge of Resource Management

6.1Resource Management

6.2Food

6.3Water

6.4Energy

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson