Which process of coastal erosion involves the force of water breaking against rock formations?

Hydraulic action is the process of coastal erosion that specifically involves the force of water breaking against rock formations. This phenomenon occurs when waves crash into the shore, exerting immense pressure on the rocks. The force of the water can break off fragments of rock and sediment over time, leading to the gradual erosion of the coastline. This process is particularly effective in areas with steep cliffs and solid rock formations, as the energy of the waves can create significant geological changes.

In contrast, attrition refers to the process where rocks and pebbles in the water collide with each other, causing them to break down into smaller, smoother pieces. Corrosion involves the chemical dissolution of rocks, typically due to the presence of acidic waters, which alters the minerals within the rocks but is not solely focused on the physical force of water. Weathering is the breaking down of rocks through various physical, chemical, or biological processes over time, but it is not specifically related to the immediate impact of wave action like hydraulic action is.