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How does granite’s granular structure impact weathering?
Granite, an igneous rock composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica, exhibits a distinctive granular structure that significantly impacts its weathering behavior. The interlocking mineral grains create a durable yet porous matrix, making granite resistant to mechanical breakdown but susceptible to chemical and biological weathering over time.
The size and arrangement of mineral grains play a crucial role. Coarse-grained granite weathers slower due to fewer interstitial spaces, while fine-grained varieties erode more quickly as water and acids penetrate smaller gaps. Quartz grains, being highly resistant, often remain intact, whereas feldspar and mica chemically decompose, leading to granular disintegration.
Environmental factors like temperature fluctuations and moisture accelerate weathering. Freeze-thaw cycles exploit granite’s microfractures, while acidic rainwater dissolves weaker minerals. Over millennia, these processes transform granite into sandy regolith, shaping landscapes like tors and domes. Understanding this granular weathering is vital for geology, construction, and monument preservation.
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