Geog

What is the average erosion rate per year in Happisburgh?

30-40 feet (9-12 meters) per year.

What are the two types of engineering methods used to protect coastlines?

Hard engineering and soft engineering.

What does hard engineering involve?

Building artificial structures such as wood and concrete to protect the coast.

What is soft engineering?

Working with nature and using natural materials to protect the coast and absorb waves.

Why is the coast of Happisburgh vulnerable to erosion?

The coast is made from soft rocks such as clay and sand, which are less resistant to erosion.

What processes contribute to the erosion in Happisburgh?

Hydraulic action, attrition, abrasion, and solution.

How does the natural width of the beach affect erosion in Happisburgh?

The coast is naturally narrow, meaning there is not enough beach to absorb the power of the waves.

What effect does the fetch of waves have in Happisburgh?

It contributes to the power of the waves, leading to increased erosion.

What types of materials are used in soft engineering?

Natural materials that help absorb waves using friction.

What are common hard engineering structures used for coastal protection?

Wooden groynes and concrete sea walls.

How does the composition of the coastline in Happisburgh impact erosion rates?

Soft rocks like clay and sand make the coastline more vulnerable to erosion.

What is the main goal of using coastal engineering?

To protect the coastline from erosion and damage.

In which region is Happisburgh located?

North Norfolk, England.

What is one disadvantage of hard engineering methods?

They can be expensive and may have negative ecological impacts.

What is the role of natural beach material in coastal protection?

It absorbs wave energy and reduces erosion through friction.

What human activities can exacerbate coastal erosion in Happisburgh?

Development and removal of vegetation can increase vulnerability.

How do powerful waves affect coastal erosion in Happisburgh?

They erode the coastline more rapidly due to their energy and force.

What would be a primary benefit of implementing soft engineering techniques?

They are more environmentally friendly and work in harmony with nature.

Can the erosion rate in Happisburgh change over time?

Yes, factors like climate change and human activity can alter erosion rates.

What is the effect of hydraulic action on coastlines?

It erodes rock and sediment by the force of water crashing against the shore.

What is attrition in the context of coastal erosion?

The process by which rock particles are worn down by collisions with other particles.

How does abrasion contribute to coastal erosion?

The wearing away of rock surfaces by the sand and pebbles carried by waves.

What environmental features are typically considered in coastal management strategies?

Sediment types, wave patterns, and coastal topography.

What is a potential consequence of ongoing erosion in Happisburgh?

Loss of land and damage to properties near the coast.

What type of material is particularly vulnerable to erosion in Happisburgh?

Soft rocks like sand and clay.

Why is it important to monitor erosion rates in Happisburgh?

To assess the effectiveness of protection measures and plan future actions.