Subaerial Processes

Define subaerial processes

Land-based processes that weaken and break down cliffs

What do they do to the cliff?

Make material less stable

Name the 2 types of subaerial processes

Weathering and mass movement

What is freeze-thaw weathering?

Water enters cracks in a cliff, it freezes and expands

What is an example of mechanical weathering?

Freeze-thaw

What is an example of chemical weathering?

carbonation

What is carbonation?

Dissolving carbon dioxide into a liquid (limestone and chalk)

What is an example of biological weathering?

Plant roots breaking apart roots

Define mass movement

The downhill movement of weathered material under the influence of gravity

What does the type of mass movement depend on?

Geology and water content

Where are rockfalls common?

steep, resistant cliffs

Where is rotational slumping common?

Soft clay cliffs

What do wetter climates cause and what does it trigger?

Increased saturation - triggers slumping

Which rocks are vulnerable to rotational slumping?

Soft, unconsolidated

How does vegetation increase vulnerability to coastal erosion?

Less root binding to stabilise slopes