Beach
Explanation
Coastal landforms are shaped by the dynamic action of sea waves, tides, and currents. These landforms are broadly classified into erosional features, formed by the removal of rock material, and depositional features, formed by the accumulation of sediment.
Analysis of Options:
- Cliff: Incorrect. A sea cliff is a steep coastal slope created by the erosive power of waves, which undercut the base of the rock, causing the overhanging material to collapse. It is a primary erosional feature.
- Beach: Correct. A beach is a landform consisting of loose particles such as sand, gravel, shingle, or pebbles. It is formed by the deposition of sediment along the shoreline by waves and currents. Therefore, it is not an erosional feature.
- Sea cave Sea cave: Incorrect. Sea caves are formed when waves erode weak points, cracks, or crevices in a coastal rock face. Continued hydraulic action enlarges these hollows, making them distinct erosional features.
- Stack: Incorrect. A stack is an isolated pillar of rock standing in the sea. It is formed when the roof of a sea arch collapses due to continued erosion. It represents a late stage in the erosional cycle of a headland.
Key Takeaway:
Common erosional features of sea waves include cliffs, caves, arches, stacks, and stumps. Common depositional features include beaches, bars, spits, and tombolos.