Weathering Types Flashcard

Front

What is mechanical weathering?

Back

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

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What is chemical weathering?

Back

Chemical weathering is the process that involves the chemical alteration of minerals in rocks, often through reactions with water, acids, or gases.

Front

Give an example of mechanical weathering.

Back

An example of mechanical weathering is the cracking of rocks due to freeze-thaw cycles or the growth of plant roots in cracks.

Front

What role do plants play in mechanical weathering?

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Plants can contribute to mechanical weathering by growing roots that penetrate cracks in rocks, causing them to break apart.

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How does water contribute to chemical weathering?

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Water can mix with carbon dioxide to form carbonic acid, which can dissolve soft rocks like limestone.

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What is the difference between mechanical and chemical weathering?

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Mechanical weathering involves physical breakdown of rocks, while chemical weathering involves changes in the chemical composition of minerals.

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What is an example of chemical weathering?

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An example of chemical weathering is the dissolution of limestone by acidic rainwater.

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How does sediment transport affect weathering?

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Sediment transport can cause mechanical weathering as moving water and sediment rub against rocks, smoothing and breaking them down.

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What is the impact of temperature changes on mechanical weathering?

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Temperature changes can cause rocks to expand and contract, leading to cracking and breaking, a process known as thermal stress.

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What is exfoliation in the context of weathering?

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Exfoliation is a type of mechanical weathering where layers of rock peel away due to pressure release or temperature changes.