What geological feature can be formed by erosion along coastlines?

Erosion along coastlines primarily shapes landforms through the continuous action of waves, currents, and tides. This dynamic process leads to the formation of cliffs, which are steep faces resulting from the removal of material from the land by marine forces. As waves crash against the shoreline, they wear away the rock and sediment, contributing to the vertical drop characteristic of cliffs.

Meanwhile, sand and smaller particles that are eroded can be transported and deposited in adjacent areas, leading to the formation of beaches. Beaches are composed of sediments accumulated along the shore, often created from the wave action that smoothens and shapes the particles.

The combination of cliffs and beaches reflects the balance between erosion and deposition, showcasing the impact of water on coastal geology. This interaction is a defining characteristic of coastal landscapes and is essential to understanding the geographical processes at work along coastal regions.