16. Geotechnical and Geomorphological Aspects
The chapter explores the historical and geological aspects of the Pitalkhora caves, focusing on the unique features of basaltic lava and its implications for excavation and conservation. It discusses the challenges posed by Tacheletic Basalt and the methods used by archaeologists to document and analyze the caves, emphasizing the conservation efforts undertaken over decades. Key topics include lava types, weathering processes, and structural challenges faced during excavation and conservation work.
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What we have learnt
- The architectural styles of the Buddha vary significantly.
- Tacheletic Basalt poses unique challenges for excavation due to its chemical properties.
- Archaeologists employ geological mapping to assess the risk and stability of cave structures.
Key Concepts
- -- Tacheletic Basalt
- A type of basalt that is soft when excavated but disintegrates into small pieces due to moisture.
- -- Pahoehoe
- A smooth, billowy type of basaltic lava that is characterized by its undulating surface.
- -- Spheroidal Weathering
- A weathering process where layers of rock erode chip by chip, resulting in a spheroid shape.
- -- Geological Mapping
- The process of documenting and analyzing geological features, such as cracks and risk categories within cave structures.
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