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Weathering is the process by which natural forces break down rocks.

Weathering & Erosion. Weathering is the process by which natural forces break down rocks. There are 2 types of weathering: Mechanical weathering Chemical weathering. Mechanical Weathering. Mechanical weathering is the breaking up of rocks by physical forces. There are 4 main types:

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Weathering is the process by which natural forces break down rocks.

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  1. Weathering & Erosion • Weathering is the process by which natural forces break down rocks. • There are 2 types of weathering: • Mechanical weathering • Chemical weathering

  2. Mechanical Weathering • Mechanical weathering is the breaking up of rocks by physical forces. • There are 4 main types: • Ice wedging • Exfoliation • Plant root growth • Abrasion

  3. Ice Wedging • When water freezes, it expands. When water freezes in the cracks and pores of rocks, the force of its expansion is strong enough to split the rocks apart.

  4. Exfoliation • The process in which layers or sheets of rock gradually break off due to the expansion of the rock caused by a decrease in pressure.

  5. Plant Root Growth • Trees, bushes, and other plants may take root in cracks of rocks. As the roots of these plants grow, they wedge open the cracks.

  6. Abrasion • The process of wearing down by friction, the rubbing of one object or surface against another.

  7. Chemical Weathering • The breakdown of rocks by chemical reactions that change the rocks’ makeup, or composition. • There are 2 main types: • Dissolving • Rusting

  8. Dissolving • Water is the main cause of chemical weathering. • Many more minerals dissolve in water that is slightly acidic – like lemonade.

  9. Rusting • The oxygen in air is also involved in chemical weathering. • Many common minerals contain iron. When these minerals dissolve in water, oxygen in the air and the water combines to produce rust.

  10. Rates of Weathering • Most weathering occurs over long periods of time – hundreds, thousands, or even millions of years. • There are 3 Influential factors: • Surface area • Rock composition • Climate

  11. Surface Area • The more of a rock’s surface that is exposed to air and water, the faster the rock will break down.

  12. Rock Composition • Different kinds of rock break down at different rates.

  13. Climate • Chemical weathering occurs faster in hot, wet regions than it does in cold, dry regions. • Mechanical weathering caused by freezing and thawing occurs more in cold regions than in hot regions.

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