granite scenery

Weathering in granite landscapes

Granite mineralogyLarge irregular crystals which is which?QuartzFeldsparBiotiteWhen and how was Dartmoors granite formed?

Granite structureDescribe the structure of granite how were the joints formed?Is granite permeable?

Granite and weatheringGranite is susceptible to many types of weathering. Describe how the following processes denude the graniteHydrolysisChelationFreeze-thawOrganic action

TorsThe most characteristic landform of a granite landscape is the tor.What is a tor?Name two areas of the British Isles where granite tors are found.

Theories of tor formationThe explanation for the formation of tors and been subject to some controversyThere are two main theories:LintonPalmer and NeilsonDraw detailed, labelled diagrams explaining the two theories.

Joint control in granite landscapesThis model shows a granite landscape inSW England viewed from above. Thereare two vertical joint sets at right angles to each other. Areas of granite with widely-spaced joints (massive zones) give ridgesand tors; areas with closely spaced joints are more easily weathered and give basins.The streams follow joints and tend to haveright-angle bends a rectilinear drainagepattern.