Compressed air Soft rock Differential erosion Headland Bay
Hydraulic action Abrasion Attrition
Wave attack Coastline changes over time
Formation 1
2 3
Bays and headlands are formed on coastlines where an area of soft rock is eroded more quickly than the hard rock in the headland. This is known as differential erosion.
Soft rock, such as sandstone, is more easily eroded and begins to form a hollow in the coast known as a bay. The area of hard rock, such as granite, is left jutting out on either side into the sea. This is called the headland.
Examples include Dublin Bay, Howth Head, Co. Dublin, and Liscannor Bay, Co. Clare.
Communicating:
With the person next to you, take two minutes to examine this image of Liscannor Bay. Discuss where most erosion has taken place. Point out the bay and headland.
