Waves crashing against the coastline can create great pressure, which forces water into cracks and crevices in the rock. This can cause the rock to break apart, a process known as hydraulic action.
2. Abrasion
Waves carry sediment (such as sand and pebbles) that can act as an abrasive, scouring the coastline and wearing away the rock. This process is particularly effective when the sediment is composed of hard materials, such as quartz.
3. Attrition
As sediment is transported by waves, it can collide with each other, breaking into smaller pieces. This process, known as attrition, also contributes to the erosion of the coastline.
4. Corrosion
Seawater contains dissolved salts, which can react with the minerals in the rock to form new, weaker minerals. This process, known as corrosion, can also lead to the breakdown of the rock.
5. Bioerosion
Marine organisms, such as clams, mussels, and sea urchins, can also contribute to the erosion of the coastline. These organisms bore into the rock, weakening it and making it more susceptible to erosion by other processes.
The rate of coastal erosion is influenced by a number of factors, including the strength of the waves, the type of rock, and the presence of marine organisms. Erosion can be a serious problem, leading to the loss of beaches, damage to infrastructure, and increased flooding.
