Weathering

Front

What is weathering?

Back

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

Front

What is physical weathering?

Back

Physical weathering is the process of breaking down rocks without changing their chemical composition, often through forces like wind, water, or ice.

Front

What is chemical weathering?

Back

Chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration of minerals in rocks, often due to reactions with water, acids, or gases.

Front

Give an example of physical weathering.

Back

An example of physical weathering is when water freezes in the cracks of rocks, causing them to break apart.

Front

Give an example of chemical weathering.

Back

An example of chemical weathering is when acid rain reacts with limestone, causing it to dissolve.

Front

What role do plants play in weathering?

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Plants can contribute to weathering through root growth that breaks apart rocks and by producing acids that chemically weather minerals.

Front

What is erosion?

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

Front

How does temperature affect weathering?

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Temperature changes can cause rocks to expand and contract, leading to physical weathering, especially in extreme climates.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

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Weathering is the breaking down of rocks, while erosion is the movement of those broken pieces to new locations.

Front

What is biological weathering?

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Biological weathering is the breakdown of rocks by living organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.