Formation of Headland and Bay

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

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

abrasion also occurs when rock fragments thrown against the headland or cliff create a sandblasting (abrasive) action, wearing away the rock.

solution is when carbonic acid in sea water causes weathering to limestone and chalk and the rock dissolves.

a headland is an area of hard rock which juts out into the sea and a bay is a sheltered area of softer rock between headlands.

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

constructive waves build a small beach in the sheltered bay between the headlands.

an example of a headland is Handfast point

an example of a bay is Swanage bay