Sandstone Landforms [Paperback]

As very few studies on geomorphological aspects of sandstones exist, this book demonstrates the significance of landforming processes from geological, geochemical and dynamic points of view. The worldwide examples include classic areas of sandstone research such as the Colorado Plateau, Saxony, France and England, but also emphasize the sandstone lands of the southern hemisphere. The authors give evidence for climatic influences on sandstone landforms, taking into account geochemical weathering processes and detailed comparative studies, and a new classification based on structural and tectonic settings is outlined. This comprehensive study, including modern techniques, can be recommended not only to geomorphologists but also to sedimentologists and hydrologists.As very few studies on geomorphological aspects of sandstones exist, this book demonstrates the significance of landforming processes from geological, geochemical and dynamic points of view. The worldwide examples include classic areas of sandstone research such as the Colorado Plateau, Saxony, France and England, but also emphasize the sandstone lands of the southern hemisphere. The authors give evidence for climatic influences on sandstone landforms, taking into account geochemical weathering processes and detailed comparative studies, and a new classification based on structural and tectonic settings is outlined. This comprehensive study, including modern techniques, can be recommended not only to geomorphologists but also to sedimentologists and hydrologists.1 Introduction.- 2 Cliffs.- 2.1 Strength, Stress and Brittle Fracture.- 2.2 Undercutting.- 2.3 Fatigue.- 2.4 Mechanisms of Brittle Fracture.- 2.5 Block Failure.- 2.6 Rotation and Gliding of Blocks.- 2.7 Evolution of Cliffs.- 3 Curved Slopes.- 3.1 Cross-Bedding.- 3.2 Jointing.- 3.3 Critical Partings.- 3.4 Weathering and Erosion.- 3.5 Polygonal Cracking.- 3.6 Alcoves, Arches and Natural Bridges.- 3.7 Amphitheatres.- 4 Chemical Weathering and Cavernous l³ƒ