What Is Block Disintegration?
Block integration is when the rocks split along joints forming large rectangular shaped blocks. During daytime, the rocks are subjected to intense solar heat that causes the rocks to expand. During night time, the temperature falls down and because of this, rocks cool and contract. Repeated expansion and contraction causes stress along joints forming large rectangular shaped blocks.
What Is Granular Disintegration?
Granular disintegration is when grains of a rock become loosened and fall out, leaving a pitted, uneven surface because of changing temperature. Rocks are made up of different types of minerals. The dark colored minerals say mica in granite, tend to absorb more heat and so are heated up faster. Light colored minerals say quartz, have the ability to reflect light and therefore are heated up slower. Repeated expansion and contraction causes loosened and fall out.
Difference Between Block And Granular Disintegration In Tabular Form
| BASIS OF COMPARISON | BLOCK DISINTEGRATION | GRANULAR DISINTEGRATION |
| Description | Block disintegration is the splitting of rocks along the joints/ lines of weakness. | Granular disintegration is a type of weathering whereby the grains of a rock become loosened and fall out due to repeated heating and cooling as a result of temperature changes. |
| Occurrence | Block disintegration typically occurs in regions where there is a high difference in daily range of temperature, for example in deserts. | Granular disintegration generally occurs in cold regions and areas located at high altitudes. |
| Cause | Block disintegration is caused by repeated contraction and expansion of rocks due to freezing of water at night and their melting during day time. (Happens as a result of temperature changes. | Granular integration is mainly caused by temperature changes in the environment. |