Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition

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What is weathering?

Back

Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces through natural forces like wind, water, and temperature changes.

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What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from one location and transported to another, often by water, wind, or ice.

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What is deposition?

Back

Deposition is the process where sediments, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or land mass, often occurring after erosion.

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What is sediment?

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Sediment is small, broken down pieces of rock and minerals that are carried by water, wind, or ice.

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How does the Colorado River shape land?

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The Colorado River shapes land through the processes of weathering and erosion, creating features like the Grand Canyon.

Front

True or False: Weathering and erosion are the same thing.

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False. Weathering is the breaking down of rocks, while erosion is the movement of those broken pieces.

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What is an example of erosion?

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An example of erosion is rocks being picked up and carried downstream by a river.

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How do plants contribute to weathering?

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Plants contribute to weathering when their roots grow into cracks in rocks, causing the rocks to break apart.

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What role does water play in weathering?

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Water can cause weathering by freezing in cracks of rocks, expanding, and breaking the rocks apart.

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What is mechanical weathering?

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Mechanical weathering is the physical breaking down of rocks without changing their chemical composition.