Stack Formation

9
Would you associated the following with headland or bays? Calm conditions Destructive waves Constructive waves Low energy conditions Shallow water High energy conditions Exposed location Sheltered location

Transcript of Stack Formation

Page 1: Stack Formation

Would you associated the following with headland or bays?

Calm conditions

Destructive waves Constructive waves

Low energy conditions Shallow water

High energy conditions

Exposed location

Sheltered location

Page 2: Stack Formation

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosedavies/534844636/

Page 3: Stack Formation

This is a chalk headland.

Because chalk is a sedimentary rock, lines of weakness run throughout

the headland.

Hydraulic action will exploit these weaknesses.

Page 4: Stack Formation

Between low and high tide, waves will attack the

base of the headland.

HT

LT

The process of corrasion will undercut the base of the cliff, forming a wave

cut notch.

Page 5: Stack Formation

The undercutting by corrasion will make the

cliff unstable.

HT

LTThis creates small caves which are enlarged over

time by erosion.

Page 6: Stack Formation

Caves develop on either side of the headland.

HT

LT

These caves erode back through the headland and

meet, forming an arch.

Page 7: Stack Formation

Continued erosion at the base of the arch will cause

the roof to become unstable.

HT

LTIt may collapse leaving a stack.

Page 8: Stack Formation

Continued erosion of the base of the stack may lead to its collapse, resulting in

a stump.

HT

LT

Page 9: Stack Formation