Weathering and Erosion

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What is weathering?

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Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces through physical, chemical, or biological means.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

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What is erosion?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

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What is chemical weathering?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is physical weathering?

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Physical weathering is the mechanical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

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What is frost wedging?

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Frost wedging is a type of physical weathering where water seeps into cracks in rocks, freezes, and expands, causing the rock to break apart.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What role do plant roots play in weathering?

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Plant roots can grow into cracks in rocks, exerting pressure and causing the rocks to break apart, a process known as biological weathering.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

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What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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How do waves contribute to erosion?

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Waves crashing against rocks can wear them down, making them smoother over time through the process of erosion.

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NGSS.MS-PS4-2

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What is deposition?

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Deposition is the process by which sediments, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or land mass, often after being transported by erosion.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

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What is the impact of wind on erosion?

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Wind can erode surfaces by lifting and carrying away loose particles, especially in dry and sandy environments.