Lecture 1: Introduction

Question 1

What is a rock

Answer 1

any mass of mineral matter, whether consolidated or not, which forms part of the earths crust

Question 2

What is a mineral

Answer 2

A structurally homogeneous solid of definite chemical composition, formed by the inorganic proccesses of nature

Question 3

What is a crystal

Answer 3

A crystal is a 3D body of which the faces are all symetrical and thier are constant angular relationships, with a relationship to the atomical structure of the substance

Question 4

What are the four physical weathering processes

Answer 4

1) Root weather
2) freeze thaw
3) Abrasion (wind, rivers etc)
4) Mineral expansion rates

Question 5

What are ions

Answer 5

Anion (-) and cations (+) are charged particles

Question 6

Provide the formula for chemical weathering of limestone

Answer 6

CaCO3 + H20 + CO2 –> Ca2+ + 2HCO30

Question 7

Give the two climates and their effects on weathering rates

Answer 7

Hold and humid = fast

Cold and dry = slow