Weathering, Deposition, Erosion Flashcards
Weathering
the process that breaks down rock and other substances at Earth’s surface.
There are two types of weathering:
- Mechanical or Physical Weathering
- Chemical Weathering
Rocks are broken apart by physical processes such as:
▪ Heat/Pressure ▪ Water/Ice
▪ Plants/Animals ▪ Temperature
Mechanical Weathering
▪The overall chemical makeup of the rock stays the same
▪Each piece has characteristics similar to the original rock
Examples of Mechanical Weathering:
Frost Wedging, Biological Weathering, Burrowing animals, weathering can also occur by the rubbing of one object or surface against another [Abrasion].
Chemical Weathering
Chemical reactions dissolve or change the minerals in rocks or change them into different minerals [changes the chemical composition]
Examples of Chemical Weathering:
• Reaction with Air (Oxidation) • Reaction with Water/Rain
• Reaction with Acid
• Reaction with Organisms
Dissolution
Water coming in contact with rock a dissolves minerals.
Erosion
Erosion transports weathered rock
material.
Erosion by Gravity
Rocks and other materials, especially on steep slopes, are pulled toward the center of Earth by gravity.
Erosion by Wind
When air moves, it picks up loose material and transports it to other places.
Erosion by Water
When water moves, it picks up loose material and transports it to other places.
Deposition
•Deposition is the process in which sediment laid down in new locations.
•Water •Wind •Ice •Gravity
Deposition by Water
As water moves through a river, it loses some of its energy and it can no longer carry some of its sediment. As a result, it drops, or is deposited, to the bottom
of the stream.
Deposition by Wind
Sediments blown away by wind eventually are deposited. Over time, these deposits develop into landforms.
