ABSTRACT
Considerations of mechanical weathering in the Antarctic are usually limited to the continent and to the dry valleys in particular. However, the oft-unrecognized maritime Antarctic differs climatically from the continent, particularly in terms of moisture availability, and consequently experiences a markedly different weathering regime. Data are presented on mechanical weathering processes, with special emphasis on freeze-thaw, from a maritime Antarctic location. The interrelationship of the various weathering mechanisms is shown and the manner in which those factors controlling freeze-thaw can exert an influence on other processes is demonstrated. For the first time an attempt is made to integrate a combination of field and simulation data to deduce the actual freeze-thaw mechanism causing rock breakdown. It is shown that, compared to the continent, despite the potentially more dynamic maritime weathering environment, weathering rates are still slow.
