Physical Weathering

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What is physical weathering?

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Physical weathering is the process through which rocks are broken down into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

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What role does water play in weathering?

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Water is a major agent in both physical and chemical weathering, helping to break down rocks and minerals.

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What is frost wedging?

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

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What is mechanical weathering?

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Mechanical weathering is the process of breaking rocks into smaller pieces through physical forces without altering their chemical structure.

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What is water abrasion?

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Water abrasion is the process of rocks being worn down by the movement of water, often seen in rivers and oceans.

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What is differential weathering?

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Differential weathering occurs when softer, less resistant rocks wear away faster than harder, more resistant rocks.

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What is exfoliation in weathering?

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Exfoliation is a type of physical weathering where layers of rock peel away due to temperature changes.

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What is root wedging?

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Root wedging is a form of physical weathering where plant roots grow into cracks in rocks, causing them to break apart.

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What is the main difference between physical and chemical weathering?

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Physical weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces without changing their composition, while chemical weathering alters the minerals within the rocks.

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What is ice wedging?

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Ice wedging is a process similar to frost wedging, where water freezes in rock cracks, expands, and causes the rock to fracture.