Weathering, Erosion, & Deposition Review Flashcardizz

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What is mechanical weathering?

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Mechanical weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. It can occur through processes like freeze-thaw cycles, abrasion, and biological activity.

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What is chemical weathering?

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Chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration of minerals in rocks, leading to changes in their composition. Common processes include hydrolysis, oxidation, and carbonation.

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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, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or land mass, often occurring after erosion when the transporting agent loses energy.

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What is hydrolysis in the context of weathering?

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Hydrolysis is a chemical weathering process where water reacts with minerals, leading to the breakdown of the mineral structure, often forming clay.

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What role do plant roots play in mechanical weathering?

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Plant roots can grow into cracks in rocks, exerting pressure as they expand, which can lead to the breaking apart of the rock.

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What is ice wedging?

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Ice wedging is a type of mechanical weathering that occurs when water seeps into cracks in rocks, freezes, and expands, causing the rock to break apart.

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What is oxidation in weathering?

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Oxidation is a chemical weathering process where oxygen reacts with minerals, particularly those containing iron, leading to rust and weakening of the rock.

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What are the agents of erosion?

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The main agents of erosion include water, wind, ice, and gravity, each capable of transporting sediments over various distances.

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How does temperature change affect mechanical weathering?

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Mechanical weathering occurs faster in areas with drastic temperature changes because the repeated expansion and contraction of materials can lead to more rapid breakdown.