How can crashing, collapsing, storm waves generate explosive forces and stresses on rocky outcrops and manmade structures?
A) Oscillating, refractive waves shake the hard materials into small fragments.
B) Storm waves hurl big rocks up into the suspended load, hammering the shore.
C) Backwash breaks out blocks of rock or concrete and carries them to deeper water.
D) The weight, momentum, and pressure of storm waves compresses air into cracks, shattering rock.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The weight, momentum, and pressure of storm waves can indeed compress air into cracks within rocky outcrops or manmade structures. When this compressed air expands, it can exert explosive forces that shatter the rock or concrete, a process known as cavitation. This is a significant factor in the erosion of coastal features and the damage to coastal infrastructure during storms.

How Can Crashing, Collapsing, Storm Waves Generate Explosive Forces and Stresses