Erosion: GCSE Geography Definition

What is erosion?

In GCSE geography, erosion is generally defined as the process where natural forces like wind, water, and ice wear away rocks, soil, and other materials from the Earth's surface. These materials are then transported to another location. 

Rivers and coasts

In rivers and at the coast, there are four main types of erosion:

• Hydraulic action is the force of the water hitting the banks and bed or coast.

• Abrasion is the scraping action of the bedload on the banks and bed or cliff.

• Corrosion occurs when material is dissolved in the slightly acidic river/sea water.

• Attrition is when the rocks in the water collide with each other.

Glacial environments

In glacial environments, there are two types of erosion:

• Plucking:

  • As a glacier moves through a valley, pressure is exerted on the sides and bottom of the valley.

  • This generates friction and heat, causing the edges of the glacier to melt a bit.

  • This meltwater freezes around rocks and stones under the glacier.

  • As the glacier moves forward, it 'plucks' this ice, pulling the rock away. 

• Abrasion:

  • Abrasion occurs as bits of rocks, stones and boulders stuck in the ice, grind against the rock below the glacier, wearing it away.

Explore our revision notes for Edexcel GCSE, OCR GCSE, Edexcel IGCSE and CIE IGCSE to see where erosion fits into the revision notes for those specifications

Erosion can happen over long periods, gradually reshaping landscapes. For example, rivers erode their banks and beds, creating valleys and canyons. Coastal erosion, caused by waves, can lead to the formation of cliffs and beaches. This process is key in shaping the physical features of the Earth's surface.

Erosion Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Use the Save My Exams coastal landscapes flashcards and exam questions to revise the process of erosion and related processes. 

Explore GCSE Geography Revision Resources