Question

Which one among the following coastal erosional landforms is caused by the action of sea waves?

• A. Ventifact
• B. Kettle
• C. Cirque
• D. Cliff

Hint:

Coastal cliffs are the result of wave erosion, where sea waves continuously wear away the coastline, often leading to dramatic, steep rock faces.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Coastal erosional landforms are formed due to the continuous action of sea waves, which erode the coastline over long periods. Among the options given:
- Ventifact: Ventifacts are rocks shaped by wind erosion, not sea waves. They are typically found in deserts or areas with strong winds, where sand grains abrade rock surfaces, giving them a smooth, polished appearance.
- Kettle: A kettle is a depression or hollow that forms in glacial regions, typically from the melting of ice blocks buried in glacial debris. It is a result of glacial erosion, not coastal wave action.
- Cirque: A cirque is an amphitheater-like valley or depression formed by glacial erosion. It is also unrelated to coastal erosion but rather a product of glacial movements.
- Cliff: A coastal cliff is a steep face of rock that forms as a result of the erosional action of sea waves. Waves constantly crash against the coastline, eroding the rocks and causing the formation of steep cliffs. These cliffs are common along coasts where the sea has a strong erosive effect, especially in areas with soft or layered rocks.
Step 1: Understanding Coastal Erosion
Coastal erosion occurs when the continuous action of waves, tides, and currents wears away the land. This process gradually removes material from the coastline and can lead to the formation of various erosional features, including cliffs, caves, and wave-cut platforms. The intensity of the wave action depends on factors such as wave height, frequency, and the nature of the rock being eroded.
Step 2: Analyzing Coastal Features
- Ventifact: Wind erosion forms these, not waves.
- Kettle: Formed by glaciers, not sea waves.
- Cirque: Glacial erosion forms this, not coastal waves.
- Cliff: Formed by the erosive action of sea waves, making it the correct answer.
Thus, the correct answer is (D) Cliff.