Distinctively arid geomorphological processes: thermal fracture, exfoliation, chemical weathering, block and granular disintegration
Hot deserts break rocks apart in specific ways. Extreme daily temperature swings, rare moisture, and salt all stress rock until it cracks, peels, or crumbles.
Real World
Uluru in central Australia displays massive exfoliation flakes peeling from its surface, caused by repeated heating to over 45 °C during the day and cooling below 10 °C at night, creating the landmark's distinctive curved shell layers.
Exam Focus
Distinguish between thermal fracture (deep cracks) and exfoliation (surface peeling) — confusing them is a common mark-losing error.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
How well did you know this?