Headlands, bays and cliffs

Types of coastline 

A concordant coastline is one with the same rock type along the shore.
A discordant coastline is one with various rock types making up the geology of the shore.

Headlands and bays are formed on a discordant coastline. The less resistant rock is eroded at a greater rate than the stronger rock by the marine erosion processes such as hydraulic action and abrasion. As a result it retreats and the stronger rock is left jutting out into the sea. Wave refraction may erode the strong rock but it remains more prominent than the weaker rock hence it juts out into the sea.

Soft rock

1. Clay

Hard rock

1. Chalk

Cliffs

Cliffs are typically steep rock faces at the edge of the sea. They are formed as a result of erosion and weathering with weathering typically occurring on the upper parts of the cliff. Harder, more resistant rock types would be harder to erode therefore they are steeper. On the other hand, softer, less resistant rock are eroded more easily, forming a gently sloping cliff.