The BGS Lexicon of Named Rock Units — Result Details
Talus
| Computer Code: | TALU | Preferred Map Code: | notEntered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Status Code: | Full | ||
| Age range: | Quaternary Period (Q) — Quaternary Period (Q) | ||
| Lithological Description: | Talus refers to the accumulation of angular rock fragments derived from steep rock slopes or cliffs by the mechanical weathering of the rock mass. The mass of talus is formed as a result of transport by gravity over short distances. It usually forms heaps or irregular talus sheets of coarse debris at the foot of steep slopes/cliffs (see also talus cone). Talus deposits include fallen rock debris, but here they are distinguished from landslip ('rockfall') deposits in that they are accumulations resulting largely from the spalling of rock fragments of all sizes due to natural weathering processes. They are not primarily due to rock falls which are usually joint-bounded masses or blocks breaking away from unstable slopes and triggered by non-weathering events such as seismic shocks and oversteepened scarps. Synonym: scree. Clast-supported accumulation of angular rock fragments. May be active or inactive. | ||
| Definition of Lower Boundary: | none recorded or not applicable | ||
| Definition of Upper Boundary: | none recorded or not applicable | ||
| Thickness: | none recorded or not applicable | ||
| Geographical Limits: | none recorded or not applicable | ||
| Parent Unit: | Mass movement deposits (MASMD) | ||
| Previous Name(s): | Scree [Obsolete Name and Code: Use TALU]
(SCRE)
Scree [Obsolete Name and Code: Use TALU] (SCRE) |
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| Alternative Name(s): | none recorded or not applicable | ||
| Stratotypes: | |||
| none recorded or not applicable | |||
| Reference(s): | |||
| McMillan, A A and Powell, J H. 1999. The classification of artificial (man made) ground and natural superficial deposits. British Geological Survey Research Report, RR/99/04. | |||
| 1:50K maps on which the lithostratigraphical unit is found, and map code used: | |||
| S031 E077 E028 E048 S023 S033 S032 S034 S040 E059 S084 S074 S071 S072 S080 S062 S131 | |||