|
|
|
 |
Surf
& Shore |
|
 |
 |
|
|
|
| On
rocky shorelines, the relentless surf erodes weak points in the
cliffs forming sea caves. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Step
1. As the glaciers melted at the end of the ice age, the sea level
rose. The eroding surf-cut coastal bluffs as the ocean flooded
inland.
|
|
Step
2. Some parts of the shoreline
rock were softer than surrounding rock. There erosion proceeded
faster.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Step
3. A large cave has formed
in the weak portion of the rock.
|
|
Step
4. The bluff will continue
to erode inland. Where the cave is today, will, in time, be carved
away.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The
ocean constantly erodes rocky shorelines. Where the rock is relatively
featureless, straight cliffs usually result. But, variations in
the rock can allow the surf to carve sea caves into the headlands.
Cracks, faults, and softer rock layers are examples of weak points
that can be enlarged by the surf into a cave. Most of these caves
are relatively small, but there are sea caves in California that
a 70-foot boat can enter. Caves like these have been favorite smuggler's
hangouts for centuries. Seals and sea lions often inhabit them as
well. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
View Slide Show
|
|
Return
to California Underground Realms |
|
