Granite is a type of intrusive igneous rock that forms when magma cools and crystallizes below the Earth's surface. It is found in parts of England, Scotland, and Ireland. Granite is resistant to weathering due to its composition of quartz, mica, and feldspar, but cracks and joints that form when it cools allow water in, causing mechanical and chemical weathering over time. This can result in the formation of tors, which are isolated outcrops of granite left standing on hilltops after surrounding rock is eroded away.

2. Intrusive igneous rock, large crystals
Impermeable rock
Batholith – mass of intrusive igneous rock
reaching surface ( exposed when overlying
rock is eroded)
 Granite Mostly found in:
 South West England and
North Scotland and
West and East coasts of Ireland.

3. Tough, resistant to erosion and weathering
Consists of: grey quartz, black mica, pink
feldspar
Feldspar - Decays to form kaolin (china
clay)

4. Granite has cracks or joints
Vertical joints formed when granite cooled
and contracted
Horizontal joints formed due to release of
pressure (from overlying rocks)
Joints make granite vulnerable to
mechanical weathering
Impermeable rock – granite moorlands
oftenly wet, marshy with lots of rivers.

5. Isolated outcrop of granite on a hilltop
Linton suggested:
- Spacing of vertical joints
- Some close, some far apart
- Warm and wet conditions, with deep
chemical weathering
- Closely spaced joints eroded quicker
- Erosion and slumping removed weathered
granite forming tor