1. Processes of Coastal Erosion
To know the 4 types of erosion that create coastal features.

4. Abrasion (also called corrasion) is the process of rocks and pebbles carried by the waves wearing away rocks as they are thrown against cliffs.
It acts like sand paper rubbing away the rock over long periods of time.
Abrasion

5. Hydraulic Action is the sheer force of waves crashing against the shore and cliffs. The power of the waves forces air into cracks, compresses it and blows the rock apart as the pressure is released.
Water can also rush into the cracks forcing it to break apart.
Hydraulic Action

6. Attrition happens when rocks and pebbles carried by the waves smash into each other, wearing each other away and gradually becoming smaller, rounder and smoother.
These gradually get so small that they form sandy material.
Attrition

7. Solution (also called corrosion) is when chemicals in the seawater dissolve minerals in the rocks, causing them to break up.
The rock gradually dissolves over time, much like carbonation in limestone.
Corrosion/ Solution

8. With the aid of annotated diagrams, explain the processes of erosion that create coastal features.
6 marks
Test your knowledge

9. Only mark out of 4 if the candidate has not made use of diagrams.
Mark allocation:
Candidate should get max. 3 marks for mentioning attrition, corrosion, abrasion and hydraulic action
Further marks allocated for explaining how the processes cause erosion.
Example answer:
As waves crash against rock faces it forces water and air into small gaps. This creates an increase in pressure which breaks the rock apart.
Marking Scheme