Weathering forms on sandstones directly exposed to sea effects in Gelincikburnu and its surroundings (south coast of the Black Sea)

Abstract

The lower parts of high cliffs and a few 10 m(2) high island-shaped rocks in the middle of the south coast of the Black sea were studied along with the coastal stretches 500 m westward from the center of Ayancik as far as 650-700 m to the west of Gelincikburnu. In this area, the Eocene sandstones slope landwards, towards the SW at an angle of 25-30 degrees, and in them there are various weathering forms such as exfoliational, honeycomb, cup shaped, cartridge and micro-bridge forms. We have studied the effects of the sea water rich in various salts and mineral substances and the slightly acidic rain water on the sandstones. It was observed that chemical, physical and biological processes acted in cooperation to create the studied forms. In the process of formation, wetting caused a chemical solution which subsequently led to salt and mineral accumulation in places nearer to the surface of the bedrock. Sand grains were removed, due to mechanic forces produced by salt crystallization, and subsequently transported for a long distance.