coastal landscapes as systems geology

What are the two key aspects of geology that influence coastal landscape systems?

Lithology

Structure

what is Lithology

Describe the physical and chemical composition of rocks

Weak Lithology

Some rock types such as clay have weak Lithology with little resistance, erosion, weathering and mass movements

This is because the bonds between the particles that make up the rock are weak

Strong Lithology

Other rock types like basalt are highly resistant and are more likely to form prominent coastal features such as cliffs and headlands

What is structure

The properties of individual rock types such as jointing bedding and floating. It also includes the permeability of rocks.

What is primary permeability?

A property - Porous rocks such as chalk have tiny air spaces which separate the mineral particles. There pores can absorb and store water

Secondary permeability

Water steps into limestone because of it’s many joints, the joints are easily enlarged by solution

Carboniferous limestone

What is a concordant coastline?

Alternating bands of rocks run parallel to the coast

What is a discordant coastline?

Where rocks lie at right angles to the coast

Headlands and bays

What is a rock strata?

the distinct, horizontal layers of sedimentary rock that make up the Earth's crust