Earth Science Constructive and Destructive Forces

Front

Lava

Back

Molten rock expelled by a volcano during an eruption.

Front

Landform

Back

A natural feature of the Earth's surface.

Front

Surface feature

Back

Any distinct part of the Earth's surface, such as mountains, valleys, or plateaus.

Front

Constructive process

Back

Geological processes that build up the Earth's surface, like volcanic eruptions and sediment deposition.

Front

Destructive process

Back

Processes that break down the Earth's surface, such as weathering and erosion.

Front

Deposition

Back

The geological process in which sediments, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or landmass.

Front

Weathering

Back

The breaking down of rocks, soil, and minerals through contact with the Earth's atmosphere, water, and biological organisms.

Front

Erosion

Back

The process by which soil and rock are removed from the Earth's surface by wind, water flow, and other natural processes.

Front

Sediment

Back

Solid material that is moved and deposited in a new location by water, wind, ice, or gravity.

Front

Canyons

Back

Deep valleys with steep sides, often carved from the Earth by a river.