Weathering & Erosion

Front

What is weathering?

Back

Weathering is the process by which rocks and minerals are broken down into smaller pieces by physical, chemical, or biological means.

Front

What are the main types of weathering?

Back

The main types of weathering are physical (mechanical) weathering, chemical weathering, and biological weathering.

Front

How does wind contribute to weathering?

Back

Wind carries particles such as sand that can erode rocks through abrasion.

Front

What role does water play in weathering?

Back

Water can cause weathering through processes like freeze-thaw cycles, where it expands when frozen, cracking rocks.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from one location and transported to another, often by wind, water, or ice.

Front

How does running water shape the landscape?

Back

Running water erodes riverbanks and riverbeds, creating valleys and canyons over time.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

Weathering is the breakdown of rocks, while erosion is the movement of those broken materials from one place to another.

Front

What is chemical weathering?

Back

Chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration of minerals in rocks, often through reactions with water, acids, or gases.

Front

What is an example of biological weathering?

Back

Biological weathering can occur when plant roots grow into cracks in rocks, causing them to break apart.

Front

What is freeze-thaw weathering?

Back

Freeze-thaw weathering occurs when water enters cracks in rocks, freezes, expands, and eventually causes the rock to break apart.