Question 1: Explain the process of hydraulic action and how it contributes to the erosion of a cliff face at the coast.

Answer: Hydraulic action occurs when the force of moving water compresses air into cracks in the cliff, weakening the rock and causing pieces to break off. Over time, this process helps to erode the cliff face.

Question 2: Describe the formation of a wave-cut platform and the stages involved in its development.

Answer: A wave-cut platform forms when waves erode the base of a cliff, creating a wave-cut notch. The cliff eventually collapses, and the process repeats, leaving a flat, rocky platform at the foot of the cliff. Over time, this results in a wave-cut platform.

Question 3: Identify and explain two types of coastal erosion features formed by wave action.

Answer: Two features are a sea arch, which forms when erosion creates a hole through a headland, and a stack, which is an isolated vertical column of rock left after the arch collapses. Both are created by hydraulic action and abrasion.

Question 4: Draw a labelled diagram of a typical spit formed on a coastline. Ensure your diagram shows the main features and processes involved.

Answer: A correct diagram would depict a narrow stretch of land extending from the coast into the sea, with a curved end (barrier or hook). It should include labels such as 'main land,' 'spit,' 'barrier,' 'hook,' and 'estuary or lagoon' if applicable.

Question 5: Describe the process of longshore drift and its role in shaping coastal landforms.

Answer: Longshore drift is the movement of sediment along the coast caused by waves approaching at an angle. This process transports material along the shoreline, contributing to features like spits and beaches.

Question 6: Explain how a wave refraction helps to concentrate erosion on headlands and protect bays.

Answer: Wave refraction bends waves so they focus energy on headlands, increasing erosion there. Meanwhile, wave energy is reduced in bays, leading to deposition. This differential erosion shapes the coastline over time.

Question 7: Sketch a cross-section of a bay and a headland, illustrating how wave energy is distributed across both features.

Answer: A correct sketch would show waves approaching the coast at an angle, with wave energy concentrated on the headland and reduced in the bay. The diagram should include labels for 'headland,' 'bay,' and 'wave approach.'

Question 8: Identify two human activities that can accelerate coastal erosion and explain their impact.

Answer: Construction of buildings and roads near the coast can increase runoff and land instability, accelerating erosion. Dredging and removing natural buffers like dunes can also weaken natural defenses, leading to faster erosion.

Question 9: Describe how a cliff is formed at a coastline subjected to erosion over many years.

Answer: A cliff forms when wave erosion undercuts the base of a landmass, creating a steep face. As erosion continues, parts of the land collapse, retreating inland and forming a prominent cliff over time.

Question 10: Explain the difference between erosion and deposition in the context of coastal processes.

Answer: Erosion involves the wearing away of land by waves, wind, or currents, creating landforms like cliffs and arches. Deposition is the process where sediments are laid down, forming features such as beaches, spits, and bars.