Weathering, Erosion, and Soil Fundamentals

These flashcards cover the major concepts related to weathering, erosion, soil science, and hydrology as discussed in the lecture notes.

What are the two primary types of weathering?

Physical weathering and chemical weathering.

What is the process of erosion?

Erosion is the removal and transportation of weathered materials.

What is mass movement in geology?

Mass movement refers to the large-scale movement of material downslope due to gravity.

What primarily drives weathering and erosion processes?

Gravity is the primary driving force behind these processes.

What is denudation?

Denudation refers to all processes that cause degradation of landscapes.

What is hydrolysis in weathering?

Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction where water cleaves chemical bonds in rocks, creating different compounds.

What are ultisols?

Ultisols are soils that have been heavily weathered.

What role does vegetation play in erosion control?

Vegetation intercepts rainfall, protects surfaces, and stabilizes soil with roots.

What does the term 'angle of repose' refer to?

The angle of repose is the steepest angle at which material remains stable on a slope.

What are some factors that influence weathering?

Type of rock, climatic conditions, joints in rock, slope aspect, and vegetation.

What is the significance of the hydrologic cycle?

The hydrologic cycle describes the movement and distribution of water in the environment.

What are the three types of soil water conditions?

Hygroscopic water, capillary water, and gravitational water.

What is soil moisture recharge?

Soil moisture recharge occurs when precipitation exceeds potential evapotranspiration.

What is the difference between actual evapotranspiration and potential evapotranspiration?

Actual evapotranspiration is the actual amount of water vaporized, while potential evapotranspiration is the maximum amount that could occur if enough water were available.

What is desertification?

Desertification is the process of land degradation resulting in arid conditions due to climate change or human activities.

How do drainage basins function?

A drainage basin is an area of land that drains water into a stream; the boundary between basins is a drainage divide.

What is a dendritic drainage pattern?

A dendritic drainage pattern is the most common and efficient pattern for transferring water and sediment.

What are stalactites and stalagmites?

Stalactites hang from the ceiling of caves, while stalagmites rise from the floor.