1.3(Spec2) - Cork

Question 1

What are discordant coastlines?

Answer 1

• rock strata are at 90º to sea
• softer rock erodes quicker than harder
• bays are where soft rock once were
• headland is harder rock

Question 2

How does geological structure affect coastal morphology?

Answer 2

• erosion occurs on both sides of headland
• sediment from this is deposited in bay
• offshore area of bay is shallow due to deposition

Question 3

What is the orientation of the Cork coastline?

Answer 3

• discordant
  
  • limestone/sandstone
• means bays and headlands exist

Question 4

How does marine erosion play at the Cork coastline?

Answer 4

• exposed to large fetch
• many storms (high precipitation)
  
  • means waves are very strong and destructive for a large part of the year

Question 5

How has sea level played a role at the Cork coastline?

Answer 5

• sea level rise has occurred
• river valleys have been drowned (Rias)
  
  • waves have come into contact with softer rock at the bay
  • headland/bay shape is exaggerated