Formation of Headland and Bay

1. initial formation

headlands and bays are formed by differential erosion, where softer, less resistant rocks (clay) erodes more quickly than harder, resistant rocks (granite)

2. hydraulic action

hydraulic action is when pounding waves compress trapped air in rocks, creating an explosive blast which weakens and loosens rock fragments.

3. Abrasion

abrasion occurs when rock fragments are thrown against headlands creating a sandblasting effect, wearing away the rock through abrasive action.

4. Solution

solution is when carbonic acid in seawater weathers limestone and chalk, causing the rock to dissolve.

5. what is a headland

a headland is an area of hard rock which juts out into the sea

6. what is a bay

a bay is a sheltered area of softer rock between headlands

7. Discordant Coastline

often form in areas with a discordant coastline where alternate bands of rock are found at right angles to the coast

8. Constructive Waves

constructive waves build small beaches in sheltered bays between headlands.

Example of a headland.

Handfast Point

Example of a bay.

Swanage Bay