Weathering and Erosion

Front

What is weathering?

Back

Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces due to natural forces like wind, water, and temperature changes.

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What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the movement of weathered materials (like soil and rocks) from one place to another, often caused by water, wind, or ice.

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What is an example of weathering?

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An example of weathering is when water freezes in the cracks of a rock, causing the rock to break apart.

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What is an example of erosion?

Back

An example of erosion is when rain washes away soil from a hillside.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

Weathering breaks down rocks, while erosion moves the broken materials to a different location.

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What causes rocks to become smaller over time?

Back

Rocks become smaller over time due to processes like weathering and erosion, where they are broken down and moved by natural forces.

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How does wind contribute to erosion?

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Wind can carry away loose sand and soil, moving it from one place to another, which is a form of erosion.

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What role does water play in weathering?

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Water can cause weathering by dissolving minerals in rocks or by freezing and expanding in cracks, breaking the rocks apart.

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What is sediment?

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Sediment is small particles of rock and soil that are carried away by erosion and can settle in new locations.

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How do ocean waves cause erosion?

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Ocean waves can erode coastlines by crashing against rocks and sand, moving materials away from the shore.