Geological weaknesses

Question 1

Joints

Answer 1

Natural fractures in rocks that occur without significant lateral displacement

Common in igneous and sedimentary rocks

Occur due to tensile/tectonic stress

Question 2

Bedding planes

Answer 2

Horizontal layers that separate successive layers of sedimentary rock

Common in sedimentary rocks

Form during sedimentation when layers of sediment are deposited over time

Question 3

Fissures

Answer 3

Narrow openings or cracks in rock surfaces, often forming networks of fractures.

Very common in limestone

Occur due to Tectonic stress, expansion and contraction and
chemical weathering processes.

Question 4

What is their overall effect on cliffs?

Answer 4

Increase water penetration

Accelerate weathering and erosion

Promote mass movement processes such as rockfalls, slides and slumping

Leads to unstable cliffs that retreat inland over time.