Earth's Changing Landforms

Front

What is weathering?

Back

The process of breaking big rocks into little ones.

Front

What causes chemical weathering?

Back

Carbon dioxide, oxygen, and acids.

Front

What causes mechanical weathering?

Back

Frost, ice, the roots of plants, running water, or heat from the Sun.

Front

What happens when ocean waves crash onshore?

Back

Pieces of the rocky, sandy coastline break into smaller pieces.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

The process of carrying rock fragments away.

Front

What is the major cause of erosion in the coastline of Massachusetts?

Back

Moving water.

Front

What role does water play in weathering?

Back

Water can cause both chemical and mechanical weathering.

Front

How do plants contribute to weathering?

Back

The roots of plants can break rocks apart.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

Weathering breaks down rocks; erosion carries them away.

Front

What is the effect of acid rain on rocks?

Back

Acid rain can cause chemical weathering, breaking down rocks.