Weathering

Question 1

Weathering

Answer 1

The in situ breakdown of rocks by exposure to the atmosphere, water and organic matter

Question 2

Chemical weathering

Answer 2

Rocks decompose when the chemical structure of their minerals breakdown

Question 3

Mechanical weathering

Answer 3

Rocks decompose by being physically made smaller, there is no alteration to its chemical composition

Question 4

Biological weathering

Answer 4

Rocks are decomposed due to the action of plants and/or animals

Question 5

Carbonation

Answer 5

The reaction between co2 gas with rainwater and pore water in soil to form carbonic acid

Question 6

Carbonation equation

Answer 6

calcite+ carbonic acid= calcium+ hydrocarbonate ions

Question 7

Hydrolysis

Answer 7

The reaction between water and silicate minerals, especially feldspars, causing the minerals to decompose.

Question 8

What are the products of hydrolysis

Answer 8

Products include residual clay mineral. silica, carbonate or bicarbonate

Question 9

Exfoliation

Answer 9

It occurs when sheets of rock split off due to differential expansion and contraction of minerals, during diurnal heating and cooling

Question 10

Frost shattering

Answer 10

Its caused by the expansion of freezing water in fractures, which force rocks apart

Question 11

Pressure release

Answer 11

Its caused by the expansion and fracturing of rock due to removal of overlying rock

Question 12

Root action

Answer 12

Its causes the mechanical and chemical weathering of rocks by the wedging action of plant roots which have grown along bedding planes and joints

Question 13

Burrowing

Answer 13

Invertebrate and vertebrate animals mix and bring rock and soil particles to the surface. This facilitates weathering at greater depths by providing access for atmospheric gases and water.