Differential weathering

Differential weathering

Differential weathering is the difference in degree of discoloration, disintegration, etc., of rocks of different kinds exposed to the same environment. Quartz deposits in basaltic flows will weather slower than the surrounding rock, while being exposed to the same forces of weathering.

More simply, Differential weathering is the chemical or physical breakdown of different rock units at different rates. The rate of breakdown is determined by several factors; the rocks' mineral composition, surface area, climate, time, etc.

Landforms created by differential weathering consist of "balanced" rocks, cliff and bench topography, natural arches, natural bridges, and fins.

References

Reynolds, Stephen, Julia Johnson, Paul Morin, and Charles Carter. Exploring Geology. 2nd. 1. New York City: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.

Northern Kentucky University Geology Dept.



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