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What is weathering?

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Weathering is the process that breaks down rocks and minerals at the Earth's surface through physical, chemical, and biological means.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

Front

What are the two main types of weathering?

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

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What is physical weathering?

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Physical weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

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What is chemical weathering?

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Chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration of minerals in rocks, leading to changes in their composition.

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Give an example of physical weathering.

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

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What is an example of chemical weathering?

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An example of chemical weathering is the formation of rust on iron-rich rocks when they react with oxygen and moisture.

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How does temperature change contribute to weathering?

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

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What role does water play in weathering?

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Water can facilitate both physical and chemical weathering by transporting minerals, causing freeze-thaw cycles, and participating in chemical reactions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is biological weathering?

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Biological weathering occurs when living organisms, such as plants and animals, contribute to the breakdown of rocks through physical or chemical means.

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What is the impact of climate on weathering?

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Climate affects the rate of weathering; for example, warm and wet climates typically increase chemical weathering rates.