Weathering and Erosion Flashcard

Front

What is weathering?

Back

The process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces by natural forces such as water, air, and living organisms.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

The movement of weathered rock pieces from one location to another by natural forces like wind, water, or ice.

Front

What are the two main types of weathering?

Back

Mechanical weathering and chemical weathering.

Front

What is mechanical weathering?

Back

The process of breaking a large rock into smaller pieces without changing the minerals.

Front

What is chemical weathering?

Back

The process of changing the minerals of the rock through chemical reactions.

Front

What can cause weathering?

Back

Water, air, chemicals, plants, and animals.

Front

What is an example of mechanical weathering?

Back

Frost wedging, where water seeps into cracks in rocks, freezes, and expands, breaking the rock apart.

Front

What is an example of chemical weathering?

Back

The reaction of carbon dioxide with water to form carbonic acid, which can dissolve limestone.

Front

What role do plants play in weathering?

Back

Plants can cause weathering through root growth that breaks apart rocks and through the production of organic acids.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

Weathering is the breakdown of rocks, while erosion is the movement of those broken pieces.