ES SOL Review 24 - Weathering

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 are the two main types of weathering?

Back

The two main types of weathering are mechanical (physical) weathering and chemical weathering.

Front

What is mechanical weathering?

Back

Mechanical weathering is the physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

Front

What is chemical weathering?

Back

Chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration of minerals in rocks, leading to changes in their composition.

Front

What role does water play in chemical weathering?

Back

Water acts as a solvent, carrying acids that can dissolve minerals and rocks.

Front

What is abrasion in the context of weathering?

Back

Abrasion is the process of wearing down rocks through friction and impact, often caused by wind or water.

Front

How does surface area affect the rate of weathering?

Back

As surface area increases, the rate of weathering increases because more rock is exposed to weathering agents.

Front

What is the effect of temperature on weathering?

Back

Temperature changes can cause rocks to expand and contract, leading to mechanical weathering.

Front

What is frost wedging?

Back

Frost wedging is a type of mechanical weathering where water seeps into cracks, freezes, and expands, causing the rock to break apart.

Front

What is the role of plants in weathering?

Back

Plants can contribute to weathering through root growth, which can break apart rocks, and by producing organic acids that chemically weather minerals.