Weathering, Mass Movements, and Soil

Front

What is weathering?

Back

The process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces through physical, chemical, or biological means.

Front

What are the two main types of weathering?

Back

Mechanical weathering and chemical weathering.

Front

Define mechanical weathering.

Back

The physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

Front

Define chemical weathering.

Back

The process that alters the chemical structure of rocks, often leading to the formation of new minerals.

Front

What is mass movement?

Back

The downward movement of soil and rock due to gravity.

Front

List the types of mass movements.

Back

Landslides, mudflows, slumps, creeps, and rockfalls.

Front

What is a creep in geological terms?

Back

A slow, gradual movement of earth materials down a slope.

Front

What triggers mass movements?

Back

Factors like saturation of surface materials with water, oversteepened slopes, and vibrations from earthquakes.

Front

What is a landslide?

Back

A rapid movement of rock and soil down a slope, often triggered by heavy rainfall or earthquakes.

Front

What is a mudflow?

Back

A type of mass movement that involves a mixture of water, rock, and soil flowing down a slope.