Explain, with the aid of diagrams, the formation of any two landforms - Leaving Cert Geography - Question i - 2016

1. Aspect 1: A diagram illustrating the cliff profile showcasing the steep face and overhang.
2. Aspect 2: A diagram depicting the wave action and the undercutting process occurring at the base of the cliff.

The formation of a coastal cliff begins as waves crash against the shoreline, eroding softer rock layers and undercutting harder layers. This processes can be explained in the following points:

1. Wave Action: Continuous wave action leads to erosion at the base of the cliffs.
2. Weathering: Physical and chemical weathering of the cliff-face contributes to its slow degradation.
3. Gravity: After sufficient undercutting, gravity may cause collapses in the overhanging sections.
4. Sea-Level Changes: Variations in sea levels can expose or submerge coastal cliffs, affecting their shape and size over time.
5. Human Impact: Activities such as construction and deforestation can accelerate erosion rates, altering coastal landscapes.

Another significant landform is a sand dune, created through processes associated with wind action and sediment transport. Sand dunes are typically found in desert or coastal areas.

1. Aspect 1: A diagram illustrating the profile of a sand dune showing its crescent shape.
2. Aspect 2: A diagram depicting the process of sand being blown by wind and accumulating on the leeward side of the dune.

The formation of a sand dune involves:

1. Wind Erosion: Wind lifts grains of sand from the ground, transporting them over a distance.
2. Deposition: When the wind speed decreases, the sand grains settle and accumulate, forming a dune.
3. Vegetation Role: Vegetation can stabilize dunes, preventing further erosion and maintaining their structure.
4. Dune Migration: Over time, dunes can migrate in the direction of the prevailing wind, reshaping the landscape.
5. Types of Dunes: Various types of dunes (e.g., crescent, linear, star) form based on wind conditions and the availability of sand.