Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition

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What is weathering?

Back

The process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces by physical, chemical, or biological means.

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What is erosion?

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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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What is deposition?

Back

The process in which sediments, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or land mass, often occurring after erosion.

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What role do plants and animals play in weathering and erosion?

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Plants and animals can cause weathering and erosion through biological processes, such as root growth breaking rocks and animals burrowing into the soil.

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What is ice wedging?

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A type of mechanical weathering where water seeps into cracks in rocks, freezes, expands, and causes the rock to break apart.

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What can result from the combination of water and gravity in weathering?

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A landslide or mudslide may result from the combination of water and gravity causing mechanical weathering and erosion.

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What are constructive forces?

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Forces that build up landforms, such as sediment deposition, plate tectonics, and volcanic activity.

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What are destructive forces?

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Forces that wear down landforms, such as erosion and weathering.

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How do sand dunes form?

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Sand dunes form as a result of erosion and deposition by wind.

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What is mechanical weathering?

Back

The physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.