Coastal Erosion and Protection.

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Geography Homework                                                   By Max Hesketh

Part 1 – Explain why some coastlines are eroded more quickly than others

The main factors that affect the rate of coastal erosion is the geology the coast, direction of the prevailing winds, type of waves surrounding the coast, the coastal management strategy and its likelihood of being prone to sub aerial weathering. All these aspects will determine and test the coastlines overall durability. When situated in a real life situation it becomes clearer to understand why some coastlines erode faster than others. For example, the geology the happisburgh coast is very weak, as it includes sandstone layered onto clay. As sandstone is permeable, rainfall infiltrates it, adding weight to the cliff and lubricating it. A slip lane is created. Soon after the sandstone moves and collapses of the clay and ultimately crumbles the cliff. However, other factors cause erosion. Prevailing winds are also a vital asset on natures behalf as they control the direction of the waves, which are needed to erode a shoreline. Happisburgh's prevailing winds are being blown from the Antarctic, which are harsh, fierce winds which therefore ensures the wave type to be destructive. This is an example of how a coastline can erode quicker than others.

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Part 2 – My view on: 'The British coastline should be better protected against the threat of coastal erosion'

For many decades the approach to rapid coastal erosion was to build up sea defences, to try and slow down or even stop the erosion. Initially the attempts were thought a success, however after some years it was realised that the power of the sea and waves could overcome human attempts. Only could protection be a success if huge costs were going to be involved. Many methods around the British Isles have taken place in he last ...

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