Constructive wave

Find out more about constructive waves.

The sea attacks a weakness in the base of the cliff. For example, this could be a joint in chalk. A wave-cut notch is created by erosional processes such as hydraulic action and abrasion. As the notch becomes larger the cliff becomes unstable and collapses as the result of gravity. The cliff retreats inland. The material from the collapsed cliff face is eroded and transported away. This leaves a wave-cut platform. The process repeats over time.

Find out more about the formation of a wave-cut platform.

Soft engineering does not involve building artificial structures but takes a more sustainable and natural approach to manage the coast.

Find out more about soft engineering techniques.

Abrasion occurs as breaking waves, concentrated between the high and low watermarks, which contain sand and larger fragments wear away the base of a cliff or headland. It is commonly known as the sandpaper effect. This process is particularly common in high-energy storm conditions.

Find out more about coastal erosion.

Wave energy reduces leading to material being deposited.

Find out more about coastal deposition.