Weathering and Erosion Flashcard

Front

What is weathering?

Back

The process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces through physical or chemical means.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

The process of wearing away or displacing soil, rock, or other materials through the action of wind, water, or ice.

Front

What is physical weathering?

Back

The process by which rocks and minerals are broken down into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

Front

What is chemical weathering?

Back

The process by which rocks and minerals are broken down and altered through chemical reactions with water, air, and other substances.

Front

What is freeze-thaw action?

Back

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 main agent of physical weathering?

Back

Water.

Front

What is the main agent of chemical weathering?

Back

Water.

Front

What role does wind play in erosion?

Back

Wind can carry away loose soil and small rocks, leading to erosion in dry areas.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

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

Front

What is sediment?

Back

Small pieces of rock and soil that are moved by erosion.