rio de janeiro's hot climate in subsequent years continued to expand the formation of these domes. regular shifts in temperature meant that the outer layers would peel away and fall into the valley below to be eroded - combined with a process known as tropical chemical weathering, where chemical reactions are created from water interacting with the minerals in the rocks.

this lengthy historical and geological process thus sculpted rio de janeiro's most famous natural landmark, the pão de açúcar, and other formations so unique to be classified as geological monuments. as a result of this geological process, the soil making up the valleys floor is rich with nutrients, supporting a diverse array of flora.