Sharp Tor

A Sharp Tor is a distinctive type of tor characterized by its jagged, angular, and often precarious rock formations. This contrasts with the more rounded, weathered appearance of some other tor types. The "sharp" descriptor refers to the acute angles and relatively unweathered edges prevalent in its exposed granite or other underlying rock.

Sharp Tors typically develop in areas with granite or similar coarse-grained igneous rocks subject to particular weathering processes. These processes might include freeze-thaw action, where water enters cracks in the rock, freezes, and expands, gradually breaking the rock apart. Chemical weathering, while present, plays a secondary role compared to mechanical weathering in shaping sharp tors. The efficiency of these weathering processes is influenced by jointing patterns in the rock, which dictate the lines of weakness along which erosion occurs.

Sharp Tors are often found in upland areas, particularly in temperate regions. They can be significant landscape features, providing habitats for specialized plant and animal communities. Their unique shapes also make them popular destinations for hikers and climbers, though their sharp edges and potential instability can pose hazards. The study of Sharp Tors contributes to understanding landscape evolution and the interplay between geological structures and weathering processes.