Features Produced by Wave Erosion

Topic Content:

Along the coast, rocks are constantly battered by powerful waves. At headlands , where the land sticks out into the sea, the rock is attacked by waves from both sides . The rock at sea level is eroded , forming caves and arches . When the rock above loses support, it collapses under its own weight, creating cliffs and stacks . These features will be discussed below.

Cliff and Wave-Cut Platform:

Cliffs and wave-cut platforms are landforms of erosion commonly found along the coast.

Formation and Growth of a Wave-Cut Platform

1. Wave-Cut Notch Formation – At high-tide level, breaking waves erode the base of the cliff, creating a wave-cut notch.
2. Cliff Weakening – Continuous wave action, weathering, and mass wasting weaken the upper part of the cliff.
3. Cliff Collapse – The unsupported upper section collapses under its own weight.
4. Debris Breakdown – Fallen materials are broken into smaller