How a Blowhole Forms A blowhole is a passage that goes through the roof of a cave to the land surface above. It is formed when powerful waves compress air that breaks a hole through the roof of the cave.
Example: An example can be found at Downpatrick Head, Co. Mayo. Sea spray
Rough sea Blowhole
Processes at work Hydraulic action Abrasion Attrition Compressed air
6. A blowhole Cave
Managing information and thinking Name the features labelled A–E.
Question Time E C D
1. Describe, with the aid of a labelled diagram, the formation of a bay and a headland.
2. Explain how a sea cliff is formed. 3. What is a sea cave?
A B
4. Describe how the processes of erosion have helped in the formation of a sea arch. You may use a diagram/s to support your answer.
5. What is a blowhole and where in Ireland can one be seen?