2.3A Lithology and rate of coastal recession

• Igneous rocks = formed by solidified Lava/magma and are very hard and resistant and erode slowly

  -> e.g. granite and basalt
• metamorphic rocks = Formed by the recrystallisation of sedimentary and igneous rocks through heat and pressure.

  -> e.g. state and schist

  -> hard and resistant
• sedimentary rocks = formed by the compaction and cementation of deposited material, or sediment.

  -> e.g. sandstone and limestone

  -> Less resistant and erode quickly
• Unconsolidated sediment = sediment that has not yet been cemented to form solid rock (lithification)

  -> boulder clay
• How lithology affects coastal resistance:

  • mineral composition affects level of weathering
  • rock class affects rate of erosion
  • structure affects weathering and rate of erosion