Weathering and Erosion

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What is weathering?

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Weathering is the process that breaks down rocks into smaller pieces through physical or chemical means.

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What is erosion?

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Erosion is the movement of sediment from one place to another, often caused by water, wind, or ice.

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What is the difference between physical and chemical weathering?

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Physical weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition, while chemical weathering alters the minerals in the rocks, often producing new materials.

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What is an example of physical weathering?

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Ice wedging, where water seeps into cracks in rocks, freezes, and expands, causing the rock to break apart.

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What is an example of chemical weathering?

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The dissolution of limestone by weak carbonic acid, which can create caves and caverns.

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How do tree roots contribute to weathering?

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Tree roots can cause physical weathering by growing into cracks in rocks and prying them apart.

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What role does water play in weathering?

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Water can cause both physical weathering (through freeze-thaw cycles) and chemical weathering (by dissolving minerals).

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What is deposition?

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Deposition is the process where sediment is laid down in a new location after being transported by erosion.

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What is the significance of caves and caverns in geology?

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Caves and caverns are formed by the chemical weathering of limestone, showcasing the effects of erosion and weathering over time.

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What is the impact of erosion on landscapes?

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Erosion shapes landscapes by removing soil and rock, creating features like valleys, cliffs, and riverbanks.