Weathering and Erosion

Front

What is weathering?

Back

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

Front

What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process by which water, ice, wind, or gravity moves fragments of rock and soil from one place to another.

Front

What causes canyons to form over many years?

Back

Canyons are formed primarily by the action of water eroding the rock and soil over time.

Front

What is deposition?

Back

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

Front

What role does gravity play in erosion?

Back

Gravity pulls rocks and soil down slopes, contributing to erosion.

Front

How does water contribute to weathering?

Back

Water can cause weathering by freezing and thawing in cracks of rocks, leading to their breakdown.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

Weathering breaks down rocks into smaller pieces, while erosion moves those pieces to a new location.

Front

What is sediment?

Back

Sediment is small pieces of rock and soil that are transported by water, wind, or ice.

Front

How do plants affect erosion?

Back

Plants help prevent erosion by holding soil in place with their roots.

Front

What is mechanical weathering?

Back

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