The diagram depicts the natural process of coastal erosion due to ocean waves, showing the retreat of the cliff face reveals fossils buried beneath it.
Initially, the cliff is strong, with layers of dirt and rock that keep the ancient fossils trapped deep within it. Over time, the relentless wave activity between high and low tide erodes the cliff foundation, causing the cliff face to retreat and expose these buried fossils.
To begin with, the process of erosion occurs in the wave attack zone, which is located between high tide and low tide levels. After the waves constantly hit the base of the cliff, erosion weakens the lower cliff foundation, causing the cliff face to retreat landward.
As the cliff retreats from the previous position, fossils buried deep within it become visible. This retreat mainly happens in the danger zone directly affected by active wave action. As a result of this continuous erosion, numerous fossils are exposed and a sloping rocky platform is formed at the base of the cliff.
