What is a wave cut platform?

A wave cut platform is formed as a result of the erosion process that occurs at the base of cliffs along a coastline. When waves crash against the base of a cliff, they erode the rock through a combination of hydraulic action, abrasion, and solution. Over time, this erosion creates a flat, often slightly sloping area of rock that extends out from the coast. This flat area is known as the wave cut platform, and it is typically visible during low tide.

The presence of a wave cut platform is significant as it indicates the former height of the cliff, providing insights into the coastal erosion processes at work. The platform is usually wider than the immediate area directly affected by wave action, representing the zone where wave energy has had sufficient time to erode the rock.