LOGGING REQUIREMENTS
In order to log this EarthCache, send me your answers to the following questions either through email or messaging from my profile page.
1: Describe the size and shape of the potholes?
2: Describe what you can see inside the potholes.
3: Do you think these potholes are all the same age? Why or why not?
4: What intertidal zone do you think these potholes are in? Please explain your reasoning.
5: Post a pic of you or a signature item with the potholes in the background.
WHAT ARE POTHOLES?
Shore potholes are circular, oval, or irregular depressions in rocky shore platforms that are created by erosion. They are usually found in the intertidal zone.
Intertidal zone
The intertidal zone is the area between high and low tide where the ocean meets the land. It's a harsh environment that's subject to frequent changes in water level, temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels.
The intertidal zone is divided into four zones, each with its own characteristics and ecological differences:
Spray zone
The upper part of the beach that's only splashed by ocean spray and high waves. This zone is more part of the land than the ocean.
High intertidal zone
Flooded during high tides, but dry for long periods in between. This zone is home to hardy sea life like barnacles, mussels, and shore crabs.
Middle intertidal zone
Submerged most of the time, except during low tide. This zone is home to a greater variety of plants and animals, including sea stars and anemones.
Low intertidal zone
Usually underwater, except during the lowest spring tides. This zone has more abundant life because of the water's protection.
HOW DO POTHOLES FORM?
Potholes are formed when the force of water and sediment is greater than the resistance of the rock. The spiral motion of water and sediment causes the erosion. There are two types of erosion involved. Weathering is the process of weakening rock through biological, chemical or mechanical means. Wave erosion is the process of physically removing material from the shore platform.
Potholes range in size from a few inches across to large cavities more than 50 feet deep that contain hundreds of gallons of water. Their enlargement is slow, but over longer periods of time the complex interactions of rock, water, and life gradually increase the dimensions of the pothole.
references
https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/5095393.pdf
https://www.geo.mtu.edu/
https://www.nps.gov/articles/ephemeral-pools.htm
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