Rock walls distribution and Holocene evolution in a mid-latitude mountain range (the Romanian Carpathians)

Rock walls in high mountain areas are the expression of long–term slopes response (103–105 years) to tectonics, weathering and denudation a major source sediment hazard. Controls rock (RW) distribution post-glacial evolution rarely discussed literature at scale ranges. Using database 791 RW mapped Romanian Carpathians, we present their morphometry respect lithological classes, structural features topography relate exposure post–Younger Dryas (Holocene) slope failure chronology. Statistical analysis results show significance tectonic control on distribution, which prevails sedimentary units where it imposed predominance West North orientations led formation with dimensions up degree higher compared other lithologies. Morphometric data indicate that metamorphic igneous (linked great extent glacial valleys cirques headwalls) usually restricted highest sectors slopes, being characterized by reduced relative heights, asymmetrically distributed, common North-exposed extremely rare South. Based 38 in-situ produced 10Be surface ages obtained meter-sized boulders from Southern Eastern hypothesise formerly glaciated Carpathian were significantly shaped during Early Holocene (before 9 ka) failures events followed deglaciation intense permafrost degradation, also affected some units. We associate imprints frost significant North/South glaciers asymmetry, identified mid-latitude sites similar topographic constraints.