Weathering Flashcards
Physical Weathering
Is when factors in the environment break down the rock.
Physical Weathering (types)
Abrasion - physical grinding by wind, water, gravity, plants, and animals.
Frost hedging - water freezes in between cracks and expands.
Thermal stress - rock contracts and expands due to temperature changes.
Chemical Weathering
When a chemical reaction occurs, creating a new substance.
Chemical Weathering (types)
Oxidation - when the iron in the rock combines with oxygen creating rust.
Hydrolysis - hydrogen replaces the ion in the rock or mineral.
Carbonation - mixing water and carbon dioxide to make carbonic acid. This dissolved certain rocks like limestone (caves).
Weathering?
Breaks the rock down, a physical or chemical change that changes the chemical characteristics of rocks on Earth.