Flashcards on Introduction to Weathering Processes
Introduction to Weathering Processes: Types & Examples
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Weathering and Geomorphology
15 cards
Card 1
Question: What is weathering in geomorphology?
Answer: The breaking down of rocks and soils by the action of weather; it changes shape and/or composition and happens in place (unlike erosion).
Card 2
Question: What are the two main agents of weathering studied here?
Answer: Temperature and water.
Card 3
Question: What is an 'agent' in the context of weathering?
Answer: A natural force that causes an effect or result (e.g., temperature, water).
Card 4
Question: Define mechanical (physical) weathering.
Answer: A physical process that breaks down rock or soil without changing its original chemical composition.
Card 5
Question: Define chemical weathering.
Answer: The breakdown of rocks and minerals through chemical reactions that change their chemical composition.
Card 6
Question: What is biological weathering?
Answer: When plants, animals (or humans) break down rocks via mechanical and/or chemical action.
Card 7
Question: Name three causes that carry out mechanical disintegration of rock mentioned in the content.
Answer: Temperature, water, and ice.
Card 8
Question: Explain freeze–thaw (freeze–thaw) weathering in simple steps.
Answer: Water collects in rock cracks; when temperatures drop it freezes and expands (about 9% larger), widening cracks; when it melts water moves deeper; rep
Card 9
Question: Why does ice widen cracks in rocks during freeze–thaw weathering?
Answer: Because water expands by about 9% when it freezes, pushing against crack walls and making them wider.
Card 10
Question: What type of climate and temperature pattern commonly causes exfoliation?
Answer: Hot, dry regions (deserts) with large day–night temperature differences.