Erosion, weathering, and geological formations

The process by which broken down material is moved from one place to another by natural forces like water, wind, ice, or gravity. 

• erosion

• weathering

• hoodoo

• arch

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

A tall, thin rock formation that forms in dry areas due to wind and water eroding softer rock, leaving behind these striking spires.  They are commonly found in places like Bryce Canyon National Park, UT (Utah).

• erosion

• weathering

• hoodoo

• arch

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

A curved shape made in rocks. It happens when softer rock wears away faster than harder rock, creating openings or passages beneath the stronger layers. 

• erosion

• weathering

• hoodoo

• arch

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

The process by which rocks and minerals are broken down or chemically altered at or near the Earth's surface. It occurs in a particular spot and doesn't involve the movement of materials.  This process can be natural and/or man-made.

• erosion

• weathering

• hoodoo

• arch

A flat-topped hill with steep sides. It's formed when tough rock on top protects softer rock below from wearing away. They are common in dry areas and are smaller than plateaus but bigger than buttes.

• mesa

• butte

• devil's tower

• the grand canyon

A flat-topped hill with steep, often vertical sides. It typically stands alone in a landscape, formed by erosion that leaves behind a flat summit and rugged cliffs. 

• mesa

• butte

• devil's tower

• the grand canyon

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

A geological feature located in Wyoming, USA. It's a unique rock formation rising about 867 feet above its base. It’s composed of hexagonal columns, formed by the cooling and solidification of molten rock beneath the Earth's surface.

• mesa

• butte

• devil's tower

• the grand canyon

A deep, massive valley with steep sides in the Earth's surface, shaped by the Colorado River over millions of years. It's characterized by steep cliffs and colorful rock layers that reveal the Earth's geological history.

• mesa

• butte

• devil's tower

• the grand canyon

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

A narrow, colorful slot gorge with smooth, curving walls carved by water in the Arizona. It's famous for its beautiful shapes and shades that sunlight creates on the canyon walls.

• mesa

• antelope canyon

• devil's tower

• the grand canyon

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4