Eroded side of a river canyon
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Eroded side of a river canyon
Weathering and erosion. The eroded side of an arid river canyon. The exposed rock of this canyon wall has been weathered by a process called freeze-thaw and eroded by wind and rain. Water from rain or dew enters cracks in the rock and freezes during the night. As it freezes it expands, breaking off fragments of rock and deepening the cracks. After melting the water trickles into other cracks, repeating the process. The crumbling rock surface is then eroded by wind and rain, and the debris washed away down the v-shaped run-off channels. Photographed at Nicola River Canyon, southwest British Columbia in Canada
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6369569
© KAJ R. SVENSSON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Canyon Erosion Geomorphology Sedimentary Rock Water Erosion
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing beauty of nature's relentless forces at work. The eroded side of an arid river canyon stands as a testament to the power of weathering and erosion. Located in southwest British Columbia, Canada, this stunning landscape has been shaped by various natural processes over time. The exposed rock face bears witness to the fascinating phenomenon known as freeze-thaw weathering. During cold nights, water from rain or dew seeps into cracks within the sedimentary rock. As temperatures drop, this water freezes and expands, exerting immense pressure on the surrounding rock fragments and deepening existing crevices. This repetitive cycle gradually weakens the structure until it crumbles away. But that's not all – wind and rain also play their part in sculpting this rugged terrain. The crumbling rocks are further eroded by these elements, while debris is carried away through v-shaped run-off channels formed by flowing water. In this extraordinary snapshot captured by Science Photo Library at Nicola River Canyon, we are reminded of nature's remarkable ability to shape our world through its intricate processes. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly solid structures can be transformed over time when faced with the relentless forces of weathering and erosion.
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