aspundir
22-04-2013, 12:49 AM
The Bungle Bungle Range, in Purnululu National Park, is one of the most fascinating geological landmarks in Western Australia. The range features distinctive beehive-shaped sandstone towers and conglomerates alternately striped in orange and black bands. The rocks rises up to 578 metres above sea level, and stand 200 to 300 metres above a woodland and grass-covered plain, with steep cliffs on the western face. From an airplane, the Bungle Bungle Range is an imposing sight.
The sedimentary rocks of Bungle Bungle were formed in the Ord Basin 375 to 350 million years ago, when active faults were altering the landscape. The combined effects of wind from the Tanami Desert and rainfall over millions of years shaped the domes. Although the formation appears solid, the sandstone is extremely fragile. The weight of overlying rock holds the sand grains in place, but when this is removed, the sandstones are easily eroded. The rounded tops reflect this lack of internal strength. Water flowing over the surface will exploit any weaknesses or irregularities in the rock, such as cracks or joints, and rapidly erodes the narrow channels that separate the towers.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c_4hNQubVew/UXK9tAFP3hI/AAAAAAAAnlY/S7v6GsSqIx4/bungle-bungle-5%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800
The sedimentary rocks of Bungle Bungle were formed in the Ord Basin 375 to 350 million years ago, when active faults were altering the landscape. The combined effects of wind from the Tanami Desert and rainfall over millions of years shaped the domes. Although the formation appears solid, the sandstone is extremely fragile. The weight of overlying rock holds the sand grains in place, but when this is removed, the sandstones are easily eroded. The rounded tops reflect this lack of internal strength. Water flowing over the surface will exploit any weaknesses or irregularities in the rock, such as cracks or joints, and rapidly erodes the narrow channels that separate the towers.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c_4hNQubVew/UXK9tAFP3hI/AAAAAAAAnlY/S7v6GsSqIx4/bungle-bungle-5%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800