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Landform Development Answer (i) or (ii) - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2019
Question B
Landform Development Answer (i) or (ii). Explain, with the aid of diagrams, the formation of any two landforms. Or Describe and explain any two processes of mass... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Landform Development Answer (i) or (ii) - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2019
Step 1
Explain, with the aid of diagrams, the formation of any two landforms.
Answer
Landform 1: Coastal Cliff
- Landform Named: Coastal Cliff
- Diagram Aspect 1: A side view showing erosion by waves at the base of the cliff.
- Diagram Aspect 2: A top-down view indicating the retreated shoreline and a cliff face.
- Formation Explanation: Coastal cliffs form due to marine erosion. Waves crash against the rock face, eroding it over time. This process is enhanced by weathering, where rainwater seeps into cracks in the rock, causing further breakdown.
- Relevant Process: Undercutting occurs at the base of the cliff, leading to the formation of a wave-cut notch, which eventually causes the overhanging rock to collapse.
Landform 2: Sand Dune
- Landform Named: Sand Dune
- Diagram Aspect 1: A cross-section illustrating the sand deposits and wind flow.
- Diagram Aspect 2: A map showing the movement of sand in relation to vegetation.
- Formation Explanation: Sand dunes form in desert or coastal environments where loose sand accumulates. Wind plays a critical role in transporting sand from one area to another. As the wind loses energy, it deposits sand, gradually building up a dune.
- Relevant Process: The process of saltation involves sand grains being lifted by the wind and then bouncing along the ground, contributing to the formation and movement of dunes.
Step 2
Describe and explain any two processes of mass movement.
Answer
Process 1: Land Slide
- Process Stated: Landslide is a rapid mass movement of soil and rock.
- Description/Explanation: A landslide occurs when gravity overcomes the friction holding materials on a slope. Heavy rainfall can saturate the soil, reducing friction and leading to a rapid slide of earth material. Factors such as human activity, earthquakes, and volcanic activity can also trigger landslides.
Process 2: Soil Creep
- Process Stated: Soil creep is a gradual, slow mass movement of soil.
- Description/Explanation: Soil creep involves the slow downhill movement of soil due to gravity. It is often imperceptible and occurs when soil expands and contracts with changes in moisture content from seasonal variations. This can lead to tilted trees, distorted fences, and other surface features that indicate slow movement.