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Using Figure 6a, Figure 6b and your own knowledge, assess the potential impact of these changes on coastal landform development in this area - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 3
Using Figure 6a, Figure 6b and your own knowledge, assess the potential impact of these changes on coastal landform development in this area. Figure 6a indicates se... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using Figure 6a, Figure 6b and your own knowledge, assess the potential impact of these changes on coastal landform development in this area - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Assessing changes in sea level and their impacts
Answer
The figures suggest significant changes in sea levels due to submergence and emergence. Figure 6a shows that 20,000 years ago, various coastal areas were significantly lower, potentially exposing more land, while Figure 6b indicates current sea levels. This alteration in sea levels can influence the development of different coastal landforms, such as raised beaches and marine platforms.
Step 2
Discussing landforms associated with submergence
Answer
With the rise in sea levels indicated in Figure 6b, areas of previous land may now be submerged, leading to the formation of landforms such as estuaries and deltaic environments. These features often result from sediment deposition and alteration in water dynamics, affecting both local ecology and geography.
Step 3
Explaining processes of emergence
Answer
Areas showing emergence, as indicated in Figure 6a, might give rise to raised beaches. This occur due to isostatic rebound, where land rises because of the melting of ice sheets. The development of these structures can provide habitats and influence biodiversity.
Step 4
Considering future impacts of climate change
Answer
Looking forward, predicted climate changes may further impact coastal landform development. Rising sea levels could reshape the existing coastline significantly, leading to increased erosion, the loss of habitats, and alteration of human activities along the coast.