Geochronology, genesis and landscape of Yanshanian granite in Guangzhou area, central Guangdong Province of China

Abstract

Based on field geological investigation and zircon U-Pb isotope dating of granites in Guangzhou, central Guangdong, the formation age, petrogenesis and weathering characteristics of granites are discussed. The LA-ICPMS zircon U-Pb ages of Huolushan and Liuqianshan granites in central Guangdong are 159.1 ± 3.5 Ma and 156.2 ± 4.4 Ma, respectively. These granites show low crystallization temperature (~ 800 °C) and negative low ε Hf (t) values (− 9.4 and − 9.8), with two-stage model ages of 1241-1666 Ma, indicating that they were derived from partial melting of the Proterozoic crust. According to the geological and geomorphological characteristics of the granite area in central Guangdong, it is considered that lithology is the material basis of the granite landscape. Structural factors such as joints and faults are important controlling factors. The climatic and hydrological conditions in the granite area also play an important role in the formation of granite landforms.