Erosion

Front

What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from the Earth's surface by natural processes such as wind, water, ice, and gravity.

Front

What are the main agents of erosion?

Back

The main agents of erosion are wind, running water, waves, and ice.

Front

How does wind contribute to erosion?

Back

Wind erodes surfaces by sandblasting, which involves the movement of sand particles that wear away rock and soil.

Front

What is wave action in the context of erosion?

Back

Wave action refers to the process by which ocean waves erode coastlines, transporting sediments and shaping landforms.

Front

What role does gravity play in erosion?

Back

Gravity causes materials to move downhill, leading to processes like landslides and mass wasting.

Front

What is mass movement?

Back

Mass movement is the downward movement of soil and rock due to gravity, which can occur rapidly (like landslides) or slowly (like soil creep).

Front

How do glaciers contribute to erosion?

Back

Glaciers erode the landscape by scraping and grinding rock as they move, transporting large boulders and sediments.

Front

What is sediment deposition?

Back

Sediment deposition is the process by which eroded materials are dropped off in a new location, often forming new landforms like deltas and beaches.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

Weathering is the breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces, while erosion is the movement of those pieces from one location to another.

Front

What are some examples of landforms created by erosion?

Back

Examples include canyons, valleys, and coastal cliffs.