How does solution contribute to coastal erosion?

The process of solution contributes to coastal erosion by dissolving soluble materials in seawater. This occurs when seawater, which is naturally slightly acidic, interacts with certain types of rocks, such as limestone, chalk, or other carbonates. The acid in the seawater reacts with the minerals in these rocks, leading to their breakdown and eventual dissolution into the water.

As soluble materials are dissolved, they are transported away by the flowing water, contributing to the overall erosion of the coastline. This process is subtle compared to physical erosion methods such as abrasion or hydraulic action, yet it plays a crucial role in shaping coastal landscapes, particularly in areas with prominent limestone formations. The result can lead to features such as caves, arches, and even broader coastal landscape alterations over time due to the continuous chemical interactions between rock and seawater.

In contrast, the other processes mentioned involve physical actions, sediment movement, or landform creation rather than the specific chemical dissolution of materials, which is the hallmark of the solution process in coastal erosion.