Question

Difference between exfoliation domes and exfoliated tors

Answer 1

Exfoliation domes and tors are formed due to physical weathering processes. >>Exfoliation domes are large and smooth rounded domesformed due to unloading and expansion of rocks. In this process, overlying rock load is removed due to continuous erosion and as a result there is a release of vertical pressure

Exfoliation is a form of mechanical weathering in which curved plates of rock are stripped from rock below. This results in exfoliation domes or dome-like hills and rounded boulders. Exfoliation domes occur along planes of parting called joints, which are curved more or less parallel to the surface.

Other exfoliation domes include Stone Mountain, Georgia and Independence Rock, Wyoming.

Answer 2

Exfoliation domes and exfoliation tors differ in the process they get exfoliated by.

In case of exfoliation dome the outer layers of the rock are exposed to continuous erosion. This results in the release of a vertical pressure. Fractures are produced as the upper layer of the rocks get disintegrated from the original rock vertically. Thus forming massive sheet known as exfoliation dome.

On the other hand, exfoliation tor is formed due to huge temperature difference. This diurnal change in temperature causes the different minerals of the outer(most exposed to temperature) layer of the have an internal movement. The outer layers expand more than the internal ones. As a result this uneven expansion and contraction leads to fractures which seperates the outer layer ultimately forming the exfoliation tor.