Weathering Types Flashcard

Front

What is weathering?

Back

Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks and minerals at the Earth's surface through various physical, chemical, and biological processes.

Front

What are the two main types of weathering?

Back

The two main types of weathering are mechanical (physical) weathering and chemical weathering.

Front

Define mechanical weathering.

Back

Mechanical weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

Front

Define chemical weathering.

Back

Chemical weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down through chemical reactions, altering their mineral composition.

Front

What is an example of mechanical weathering?

Back

An example of mechanical weathering is freeze-thaw action, where water seeps into cracks in rocks, freezes, expands, and causes the rock to break apart.

Front

What is an example of chemical weathering?

Back

An example of chemical weathering is acid rain reacting with limestone, leading to the dissolution of the rock.

Front

How does temperature change contribute to mechanical weathering?

Back

Temperature changes cause rocks to expand when heated and contract when cooled, leading to stress and eventual fracturing.

Front

What role do plants play in weathering?

Back

Plants contribute to weathering through root growth, which can exert pressure on rocks and lead to their breakdown.

Front

How does animal activity contribute to mechanical weathering?

Back

Animal activity, such as burrowing or digging, can disturb and break apart rocks, contributing to mechanical weathering.

Front

What is the impact of acid rain on rocks?

Back

Acid rain can lead to chemical weathering by reacting with minerals in rocks, causing them to dissolve and form holes.