Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
1045559 | Quaternary Research | 2011 | 6 Pages |
Abstract
Lower slopes of the Sandia Mountains are characterized by granitic corestone topography and weathering-limited slopes with thin grusy colluvium and weakly developed soils. In contrast, thick soils with illuvial clay and pedogenic carbonate have developed below aplite outcrops. Aplite is resistant to chemical decomposition, but physically weathers to blocky clasts that enhance surface roughness and erosional resistance of colluvium, promoting accumulation of eolian fines. Thick B horizons on aplite slopes indicate limited erosion and prolonged periods of stability and soil development. Accretion of eolian material limits runoff and prevents attainment of a steady-state balance between soil production and downslope transport.
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Earth and Planetary Sciences
Geology
Authors
Lyman P. Persico, Leslie D. McFadden, Jedidiah D. Frechette, Grant A. Meyer,