- Wave Rock
Wave Rock is a natural rock formation located east of the small town of Hyden in
Western Australia . It derives its name from the fact that it is shaped like a large, smooth wave. The total outcrop covers several hectares. The "wave" part of the rock is about 15 metres high and approximately 110 metres long.The unusual shape of the rock is greatly highlighted by vertical darker streaks of algae, which grow on the surface of the 'wave', and by dark black stains which change to brown during the dry season.
One aspect of Wave Rock rarely shown on photographs is the retaining wall about halfway up the rock. This follows the contours and allows rainwater to be collected in a
dam . It was constructed in 1951 by the Public Works Department, and such walls are common on many similar rocks in the wheatbelt.Geology
Wave Rock is composed of
granite . It should be pointed out that the shape of the rock is not caused by a wave phenomenon, rather its rounded wave-like shape was formed by subsurface chemical weathering followed by removal the soft weathered granite by fluvial erosion, thus the weathering occurred below ground level before it was exposed. The end result is an undercut base, leaving a rounded overhang.Cite journal
volume = 57
pages = 37-74
last = Twidale
first = C.R.
title = The two stage concept of landform and landscape development involving etching: origin, development and implications of an idea
journal = Earth-Science Reviews
date = 2002
doi = 10.1016/S0012-8252(01)00059-9] Wave Rock is situated in Hyden,Western Australia and is not the only wave like rock in the area.Nearby features
Other famous rock formations in the area include
The Hippo's Yawn and The Humps.References
ee also
*
The Wave, Arizona - similar rock formation in the United States.
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