Help ID'ing cause of terrain feature:

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In summary, the conversation discusses a picture of a mountain in Maine and New Hampshire with a large vertical fracture on its northeast face. The cause of the fracture is debated, with suggestions including residual stress from a fold, geopressure, faulting, slump into an incompetent bed, or a large rock saw. One person jokingly suggests that the fracture was caused by Paul Bunyan sticking his ax in the ground.
  • #1
GeoMike
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http://www.mcschell.com/crack.jpg
This image is from a hiking trip I took a few years back. The image is of a mountain on the Maine/New Hampshire border (West Royce Mtn.). The mountain has a large vertical fracture running almost the whole length of the steep northeast face of the mountain. Through binoculars the fracture appears quite deep.

To the left and right of the fracture you can see evidence of what looks like exfoliation. Would the fracture also be the result of expansion after uplift, or some other cause?

Full image is here:
http://www.mcschell.com/wroyce.jpg

Thanks,
-GeoMike-
 
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  • #2
http://www.coloradocollege.edu/Dept/GY/faculty/wphillips/web%20page.htm

Looks like you've got your choice of residual stress in a fold, residual stress from geopressure following erosion, faulting, slump into incompetent bed, or someone with a really big rock saw.
 
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  • #3
Based on the sarounding topography in the larger photo, I would say slumping is the most likely. Looks like the end of the larger structrue is breaking off into the adjacent valley.
 
  • #4
Bystander said:
http://www.coloradocollege.edu/Dept/GY/faculty/wphillips/web%20page.htm

Looks like you've got your choice of residual stress in a fold, residual stress from geopressure following erosion, faulting, slump into incompetent bed, or someone with a really big rock saw.
That was definitely caused by Paul Bunyan sticking his ax in the ground.
 
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FAQ: Help ID'ing cause of terrain feature:

What factors contribute to the formation of terrain features?

Terrain features can be formed by various factors such as erosion, weathering, tectonic activity, volcanic activity, and human activities. These factors can act alone or in combination to shape the land surface.

How can we identify the cause of a specific terrain feature?

To identify the cause of a terrain feature, scientists use a combination of field observations, remote sensing techniques, and geological mapping. They also analyze the physical characteristics and composition of the feature to determine the most likely cause.

Can terrain features change over time and if so, how?

Yes, terrain features can change over time due to natural processes such as erosion and weathering. Human activities such as mining and construction can also alter the land surface. Climate change can also lead to changes in terrain features.

Are there any specific tools or technologies used to identify the cause of terrain features?

Yes, scientists use a variety of tools and technologies such as topographic maps, aerial and satellite imagery, LiDAR, ground-penetrating radar, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to identify and analyze terrain features.

Can terrain features provide information about the history of a particular region?

Yes, terrain features can provide valuable information about the geological history of a region. By studying the shape, composition, and arrangement of terrain features, scientists can infer the past environmental conditions and events that shaped the land surface.

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