Untitled Flashcard

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What is Mechanical Weathering?

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Mechanical weathering, also known as physical weathering, is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

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What is another name for Mechanical Weathering?

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Physical Weathering.

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How does Mechanical Weathering occur?

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Mechanical weathering occurs through physical processes such as temperature changes, freeze-thaw cycles, and pressure release.

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What is Thermal Expansion in the context of Mechanical Weathering?

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Thermal expansion is the process where rocks expand when heated and contract when cooled, leading to cracks and eventual breakdown.

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What is Frost Weathering?

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Frost weathering, or freeze-thaw weathering, occurs when water enters cracks in rocks, freezes, expands, and causes the rock to break apart.

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What is Exfoliation in Mechanical Weathering?

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Exfoliation is the process where outer layers of rock peel away due to temperature changes and pressure release.

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Does Mechanical Weathering happen fast or slow?

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Mechanical weathering happens slowly over time.

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What are some examples of Mechanical Weathering?

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Examples include thermal expansion, frost weathering, exfoliation, abrasion, and root wedging.

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What is Abrasion in the context of weathering?

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Abrasion is the process of rocks being worn down by friction and impact with other rocks or particles.

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What role do plants play in Mechanical Weathering?

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Plants can contribute to mechanical weathering through root wedging, where roots grow into cracks and break the rock apart.