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

To assess the role of rock type in the landscape, we must first understand the geological composition of the area surrounding the feature seen in Figure 6. The photograph depicts a coastal arch, which suggests that the rock type plays a significant role in the landscape's formation.

Importance of Rock Type

1. Resistance to Erosion: Different rock types have varying levels of resistance against erosional processes such as hydraulic action, abrasion, and solution. For example, harder rocks like limestone are more resistant compared to softer rocks like sandstone. The development of features such as arches, stacks, and eroded cliffs typically occurs in areas where the rock has the strength to withstand constant wave action.

2. Formation of Coastal Features: Coastal landscapes are formed through processes influenced by the rock type. The presence of specific rock types like limestone can lead to the formation of caves that eventually collapse to form arches. In Figure 6, the defining characteristic of the arch indicates that the underlying rock type was likely composed of materials that facilitated this unique feature's development.

Other Factors to Consider

While rock type is crucial, it is not the sole factor in the development of coastal landscapes:

• Wave Energy and Climate: The energy of the waves also plays a critical role in how sediments are eroded and deposited. Areas with higher wave energies are more susceptible to rapid erosion, which can influence how features develop.
• Subaerial Processes: Weathering processes above the waterline, such as freeze-thaw cycles and plant root growth, also contribute to rock breakdown regardless of the rock type.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while rock type is a fundamental factor in shaping coastal landscapes, particularly in the formation of features like those seen in Figure 6, it must be evaluated alongside other processes such as wave energy and climatic conditions. Thus, it can be argued that rock type is indeed a significant factor, but it does not operate in isolation.