* Hydraulic action is the force of the water itself, crashing against the cliff face. This force can create pressure that can crack and weaken the rock.
* Abrasion is the process of the waves carrying sand and pebbles, which act like sandpaper, grinding against the cliff face and wearing it away.
These processes are often aided by:
* Corrosion: This is the chemical breakdown of rock, often caused by the salt water in the waves.
* Weathering: This refers to the breakdown of rock due to exposure to the elements (rain, wind, frost, etc.).
The combination of these processes can lead to significant erosion, causing cliffs to retreat and shaping the coastline over time.
