Some observations on rock weathering, Cumberland Peninsula, Baffin Island

Abstract

A variety of bedrock weathering features—both modern and remnant—including surface grus, polygonal cracks, siliceous glaze, tors, weathering pits, and tafoni typify upland outcrops on the Cumberland Peninsula. Tor ridges are particularly prevalent and at lower elevations they show significant modification and streamlining by flowing ice. On summit areas at elevations above 750 m, however, remnant corestones are preserved in situ, suggesting selective preservation of upland surfaces. Bedrock structure and composition, topographic position, and intensity of process strongly influence tor development. Weathering pits are common on high level, open summit surfaces where weathering occurs in response to both climate and continued removal of derived debris. Pit enlargement through lateral undercutting has been favoured by accumulation of protective bottom residua, mechanical weathering, and the presence of exfoliation crusts. It is postulated that salt crystallization plays a role in outcrop microweathering under present upland arctic conditions.