Examine, with the aid of labelled diagram/diagrams, the processes which have shaped one Irish landform of your choice. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2009

One significant process that has shaped the Cliffs of Moher is erosion. The combination of marine and weathering processes has led to the gradual wearing away of the rock face.

The Cliffs of Moher are a prominent example of a coastal landform in Ireland, showcasing stunning natural beauty and geological significance.

The diagram should illustrate the Cliffs of Moher, accurately indicating the features such as the height of the cliffs, the ocean below, and the processes of erosion and weathering involved. A following description can explain the diagram elements, such as:

1. Cliff face - showing layers of rock.
2. Wave action - indicating how waves contribute to erosion.
3. Weathering processes - labeled as physical and chemical weathering contributing to cliff breakdown.

The primary processes that have shaped the Cliffs of Moher include:

• Hydraulic Action: The force of water waves crashing against the cliff face which creates pressure and cracks in the rock.
• Abrasion: This occurs when sediment and other materials carried by the waves scrape against the rock, leading to further erosion.
• Chemical Weathering: Rainwater may react with minerals in the rock, especially limestone, dissolving it gradually over time, contributing to landscape changes.

These processes work together over millennia to sculpt the iconic features we see today.