Earth/Space Science Midterm Review

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What is chemical weathering?

Back

Chemical weathering is the process by which rocks break down due to chemical reactions, often involving water, acids, and gases, leading to changes in the mineral composition.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

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What is physical weathering?

Back

Physical weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition, often due to temperature changes, freezing, and thawing.

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What is an agent of weathering?

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An agent of weathering is a natural force or process that contributes to the breakdown of rocks, including water, wind, ice, and biological activity.

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What role does water play in weathering?

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Water can cause both chemical and physical weathering; it can dissolve minerals (chemical) and expand when frozen, breaking rocks apart (physical).

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What is geochemistry?

Back

Geochemistry is the study of the chemical composition of the Earth and its processes, including the interactions between rocks, water, and the atmosphere.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-5

NGSS.HS-ESS2-6

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What are condensation nuclei?

Back

Condensation nuclei are small particles in the atmosphere, such as dust or smoke, around which water vapor condenses to form cloud droplets.

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What is the significance of plant roots in weathering?

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Plant roots can penetrate rocks and soil, exerting pressure and contributing to physical weathering as they grow and expand.

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What is the effect of freezing water on rocks?

Back

When water freezes, it expands, which can exert pressure on rocks and lead to physical weathering, causing cracks and breaks.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Front

What is acid precipitation?

Back

Acid precipitation refers to rain, snow, or fog that has a lower pH due to the presence of pollutants, which can chemically weather rocks and minerals.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

Weathering is the breakdown of rocks in place, while erosion involves the movement of weathered material from one location to another by wind, water, or ice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2