Random definitions and concepts I don't get Flashcards
Weathering
The breakdown and/or decay of rock at or near the Earth’s surface.
Types of weathering
- Mechanical
- Biological
- Chemical
Sub-aerial processes
A combination of weathering and mass movement. It includes processes that slowly (usually) break down the coastline, weaken the underlying rocks and allow sudden movements or erosion to happen more easily. Material is broken down in situ, remaining in or near its original position. These may affect the shape of the coastline, and include weathering, mass movement and run-off.
Mass movement
The movement of material downhill under the influence of gravity, but may also be assisted by rainfall
Types of mass movement
- soil creep
- mudflows
- rockfall
- runoff
- slumping
- landslides
Types of chemical weathering
- carbonation
- oxidation
Types of biological weathering
- caused by plants and animals
Types of mechanical weathering
- freeze-thaw
- exfoliation
- wetting and drying
- crystallisation
Marine processes
Operate upon a coastline and are connected with the sea, such as waves, tides and longshore drift
What are the processes of marine transportation?
- traction
- saltation
- suspension
- solution
Traction
Large stones and boulders are rolled and slid along the seabed and beach by moving seawater. This happens in high energy environments.
Saltation
Small stones bounce or leapfrog along the seabed and beach. This process is associated with relatively high energy conditions.
Suspension
Very small particles of sand and silt are carried along by the moving water. Such material is not only carried, but is also picked up, mainly through the turbulence that exists in the water.
Solution
Dissolved materials are transported within the mass of moving water.
Marine deposition
When the sea loses energy, it drops the material it has been carrying.
