Surface Processes

Front

What is weathering?

Back

Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces through physical, chemical, or biological means.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

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

Front

What is deposition?

Back

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

Front

What is frost wedging?

Back

Frost wedging is a type of physical weathering where water seeps into cracks in rocks, freezes, expands, and causes the rock to break apart.

Front

What is the role of moving ice in erosion?

Back

Moving ice, such as glaciers, can carve out valleys and shape landscapes through the process of erosion.

Front

What is the Lockport dolostone?

Back

The Lockport dolostone is a type of rock that is known for its resistance to weathering and erosion, making it a durable geological formation.

Front

What is the minimum stream velocity required to transport sand particles?

Back

The approximate minimum stream velocity required to transport the smallest particles of sand is 0.3 cm/s.

Front

What factors influence the distance particles are transported by a stream?

Back

Factors include the size and weight of the particles, the velocity of the water, and the duration of transport.

Front

What is the difference between physical and chemical weathering?

Back

Physical weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition, while chemical weathering alters the minerals within the rocks.

Front

What are agents of erosion?

Back

Agents of erosion include water, wind, ice, and gravity, all of which can transport materials from one location to another.