[1018V2] Fairy chimneys, Cappadocia, Turkey

The chimneys are a result of a geologic process that began millions of years ago, when volcanic eruptions rained ash across what would eventually become Turkey. That ash hardened into tuff, a porous rock, which was covered by a layer of basalt. Finally, the long work of erosion began. As millennia passed, the softer tuff wore down, giving way to pillars that stand as tall as 130 feet. The harder basalt erodes more slowly, forming a protective, mushroom-shaped cap over each one. Just like that, a fairy chimney is born — no pixie dust required.

 

Reference: Smithsonian Magazine

Read more: www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/fairy-chimneys-turkey-18095...

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