Question 1: Describe what happens during the process of erosion along a coastline. Include at least two different types of erosion in your answer.

Answer: Erosion occurs when the sea wears away the land. Types include hydraulic action, where force of water breaks rock, and abrasion, where rocks carried by the sea grind against the coast, wearing it away.

Question 2: Explain the formation of a headland and a bay along a coastline. What differences in rock types contribute to their formation?

Answer: A headland forms when resistant rock sticks out into the sea, eroding slowly, while softer rock behind erodes more quickly, creating a bay. Hard rock resists erosion, whereas soft rock erodes easily.

Question 3: Identify and describe two types of coastal landforms created by deposition.

Answer: Examples include beaches, where sand is deposited along the shore, and spits, which are extended ridges of sand or shingle created by longshore drift.

Question 4: Explain what a wave-cut platform is and how it forms.

Answer: A wave-cut platform is a flat, rocky area at the base of a cliff. It forms when the sea erodes the base of the cliff, causing it to retreat, leaving a platform behind.

Question 5: Describe the process of longshore drift and how it affects the coastline.

Answer: Longshore drift is the movement of sediment along the coast caused by waves striking the shore at an angle. It transports material, shaping features like spits and beaches.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram of a spit extending into the sea from a coastline. Label the key features.

Answer: A spit is a narrow strip of land extending from the coast into the sea, often with a curved end. It should include labels for the main land, the spit, and the sea.

Question 7: Describe the differences between a cliff and a wave-cut platform, including how each is formed.

Answer: A cliff is a steep face of rock formed by erosion and weathering of the coast. A wave-cut platform is a flat area at the base of a cliff formed by erosion, left behind after the cliff retreats.

Question 8: Identify two human activities that can impact coastal environments negatively.

Answer: Activities include building on coastlines, which can increase erosion, and pollution from ships or industry that harms marine ecosystems.

Question 9: Draw a diagram showing the process of hydraulic action during wave erosion. Include at least three stages or key points in your diagram.

Answer: A correct diagram would show waves hitting the cliff, water forcing air and water into cracks (hydraulic action), the crack widening over time, and rock pieces breaking away.

Question 10: Explain how human activities such as constructing sea walls can help protect coastlines. Mention at least one advantage and one disadvantage.

Answer: Sea walls protect the coast from erosion by absorbing wave energy, preventing land loss. However, they can be expensive and may cause increased erosion elsewhere.