Which of the following is a potential consequence of tectonic activity on coastal regions?

The consequences of tectonic activity on coastal regions can be profound, and an increase in shoreline erosion is a significant outcome of such geological processes. Tectonic activity often leads to the uplift or subsidence of land, which can directly affect how coastal areas interact with ocean waves and currents. As the land shifts, it may expose certain areas to increased wave action, leading to accelerated erosion along the coastline.

Additionally, tectonic uplift, particularly in areas where land is elevated due to seismic activity, may alter the gradient of coastal areas, potentially leading to steeper shores that are more susceptible to erosive forces. Storm events and rising sea levels, often exacerbated by tectonic shifts, can also contribute to increased erosion in these regions, making the coastline more vulnerable than it was before the tectonic changes occurred.

While enhancement of fish populations and formation of coral reefs can be influenced positively by certain geological activities, these outcomes are not direct consequences of tectonic movement. Similarly, a reduction in sea level is generally contrary to the effect that tectonic activity would have, which would not support a decrease in sea level in coastal zones. Thus, the understanding of tectonic activity's role in increasing shoreline erosion highlights the dynamic relationship between geological forces and coastal processes.