Mechanical/physical Weatherngi Flashcards
1
Q
Definition
A
Break up of rocks without any chemical change taking place. There are several types of mechanical weathering processes that are active at the coast.
2
Q
Frost shattering
A
Water enters a crack or joint in the rock when it rains and then freezes in cold weather. When the water freezes it expands by 10%. This puts pressure on the rock and forces the crack to widen.
3
Q
Salt crystallisation
A
When salt water evaporates, it leaves salt crystals behind. These can grow over time and exert stresses in the rock causing it to break up.
4
Q
Wetting and drying
A
Frequent cycles of wetting and drying are common on the coast. Rocks rich in clay expand when they get wet and contract as they dry. This can cause them to crack and break up.
