What type of rock is highly resistant to weathering?

Granite is an igneous rock that is highly resistant to weathering due to its composition and the way it forms. It is primarily made up of quartz, feldspar, and mica, which are minerals that are durable and stable under surface conditions. The interlocking crystal structure of granite gives it strength and makes it less susceptible to breaking down into smaller particles when exposed to environmental factors such as wind and water.

In contrast, other types of rock, such as limestone and shale, tend to be more prone to weathering. Limestone, which is composed mainly of calcite, can dissolve in the presence of acidic rainwater, leading to erosion and the formation of features like karst topography. Sandstone, although relatively durable, can still weather more easily than granite because it consists of loose grains of sand held together by cement, which can be more easily eroded by weathering processes. Shale, being a sedimentary rock, is also more susceptible to weathering and can break down into clay particles due to its relatively softer composition.

Thus, the combination of granite’s mineral content, crystal structure, and formation process contributes to its high resistance to weathering compared to other rock types.