Weathering

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What is weathering?

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

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What is mechanical weathering?

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

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What is chemical weathering?

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

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What is biological weathering?

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Biological weathering occurs when living organisms, such as plants and animals, contribute to the breakdown of rocks.

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What is erosion?

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

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What is deposition?

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Deposition is the process where sediments are dropped or settled in a new location after being transported by erosion.

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What role does water play in weathering?

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Water can cause both mechanical and chemical weathering; it can freeze and expand in cracks (mechanical) or dissolve minerals (chemical).

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What is frost heaving?

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Frost heaving is a type of mechanical weathering that occurs when water freezes in the ground, causing soil and rocks to be pushed upward.

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How do plants contribute to weathering?

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Plants can contribute to biological weathering by growing roots that break apart rocks and by producing acids that chemically alter minerals.

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What is abrasion in the context of weathering?

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