Weathering and Erosion

Front

What is weathering?

Back

The breaking up of rocks.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

The removal of the broken (weathered) material.

Front

What is deposition?

Back

The placement of eroded material such as shingles, sand or mud in an area.

Front

What are sub-aerial processes?

Back

Weathering and erosion processes that occur above the high tide mark.

Front

What is freeze-thaw weathering?

Back

Rainwater in cracks freezes, expands, and breaks the rock.

Front

What is salt crystallization/corrosion weathering?

Back

Saltwater spray evaporates, leaving salt crystals that grow and break the rock.

Front

What is biological weathering?

Back

Living organisms like burrowing animals and plant roots break apart rocks.

Front

How can rain and runoff affect cliffs?

Back

Rainwater can erode cliffs.

Front

How do human activities impact erosion rates?

Back

Actions such as placing storm sewers or removing vegetation can impact erosion rates.

Front

What are wave processes?

Back

Erosion and weathering processes that occur below the high tide mark where waves are in contact with the cliff.