Using Figure 6 and your own knowledge, assess the view that rock type is the most important factor in the development of this landscape - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1

The rock type plays a critical role in shaping coastal landscapes, particularly in the case of Malta, where limestone and softer sedimentary rocks dominate.

1. Understanding Erosional Processes: Marine erosion, driven by wave action and aggressive weathering, is key to understanding the features shown in Figure 6. The type of rock and its resistance to erosion significantly influence the development of features such as arches and stacks.

2. Role of Rock Type: In contexts where limestone is prevalent, it weathers more slowly, allowing surf energy to carve out coastal features effectively. Softer rocks, on the other hand, might erode faster, leading to a more rapid change in the landscape.

3. Historical Context: The initial rock formations contribute to the current landscape. Over time, continuing marine erosion on Malta's coastline has led to the formation of the coastal feature visible in the image, illustrating that rock type was a determining factor.

4. Comparison with Other Factors: While rock type is pivotal, other environmental conditions such as wave energy, sediment supply, and climatic conditions also contribute to coastal development. However, these factors often work in tandem with the geological characteristics of the rocks present.

5. Conclusion: While it can be argued that rock types fundamentally impact coastal feature formation, the interplay of other factors plays a crucial role in shaping the landscape. Therefore, rock type is a major but not sole contributor to the process.