Lithological factors of coasts

What is lithology?

The make up of each individual rock type.

What factors influence lithology?

Mineral composition, solubility, and hardness of the rock.

How do soluble rocks affect erosion?

More soluble rocks erode quicker; for example, chalk and limestone have calcium carbonate that is soluble in saltwater, leading to more weathering and erosion.

How does hardness affect the erosion of rocks?

Harder, more resistant rocks erode less; for example, granite is a hard rock that is less susceptible to erosion and weathering.

What does the structure of a rock refer to?

How the rocks are put together, including bedding planes, faults, folds, dips, and joints.

What is an igneous rock?

A rock formed through the cooling and solidification of magma or lava, typically hard and resistant to weathering.

What processes can cause the formation of igneous rocks?

An increase in temperature, a decrease in pressure, or a change in composition.

How are sedimentary rocks formed?

By the accumulation or deposition of mineral or organic particles at the Earth's surface, followed by cementation.

What are sedimentary rocks generally more susceptible to?

Weathering and erosion.

What characterizes metamorphic rocks?

They started as another type of rock but have been substantially changed by heat, pressure, or mineral-rich fluids.

What is a bedding plane?

A line in rocks that separates two different layers, one usually more resistant to erosion and one weaker.

How do bedding planes affect erosion?

They are weaknesses in the rock structure, making the rock more susceptible to erosion and weathering, leading to erosive landforms.

Give an example of an erosive landform created by bedding planes.

Retreating cliffs, caves, or arches.