What term describes an isolated mass of rock, often granite, left standing on a hilltop after the surrounding rock has been weathered away?

The term that describes an isolated mass of rock, often granite, left standing on a hilltop after the surrounding rock has been weathered away is "tor." Tors are typically formed through a combination of geological processes, including erosion and weathering, which wear away the softer rock surrounding the more resistant granite. As a result, the granite outcrops remain prominent and often take on distinct shapes, contributing to unique landscapes.

This term specifically indicates the formation that results from the unequal weathering of rock, highlighting the role of granite as a resilient material in such geologic formations. Tors are commonly found in regions characterized by granitic compositions, stand out against the landscape, and can serve as important ecological and recreational sites.

In contrast, while "monolith" refers to a single massive stone or rock, it does not specifically address the context of weathering or isolation. "Outcrop" describes any visible exposure of rock at the Earth's surface but isn't specific to the isolated nature or shape described in the question. "Butte," on the other hand, refers to an isolated hill with steep, often vertical sides and a relatively flat top, but it typically has a larger base compared to a tor and is often formed from sedimentary layers rather