Question

Give two examples of how and why a Cliff collapses.

Answer 1

Answer:

The coastguard warns of " vulnerable cliff edges" as heavy rain increases the risk of rock falls.

Answer 2

Cliffs collapse for a number of reasons, including the rate and type of weathering acting upon the front edge of the cliff or the cliff face, and the rate and type of erosion occurring at the cliff base. These 2 processes are dependent upon various factors including:
The size and power of the waves attacking the coastline
The material that makes up the coastline - weak clays will collapse quicker than more solid Granite
The STRUCTURE of the rock, rocks with vertical faults and horizontal bedding planes are more susceptible to erosion.
The climate of the area - warm humid climates favour more chemical weathering.
Where the waves strike the cliff face.

Cliffs can collapse in a number of different movements, called MASS MOVEMENTS;