Weathering Processes and Importance

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on weathering processes, including definitions, importance, types of weathering, and the role of different agents.

What is weathering?

The physical or chemical breakdown of rocks into smaller fragments or solutes.

What are the two main types of weathering?

Physical (mechanical) weathering and chemical weathering.

What is the main importance of weathering?

It reduces rock cohesion, increases surface area, and shapes Earth’s surface.

What is physical weathering?

The physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

What is an example of a physical weathering process?

Frost wedging, where freeze-thaw cycles cause cracks in rocks.

What is chemical weathering?

The breakdown of rocks through chemical alterations of minerals.

What is oxidation in relation to weathering?

The loss of electrons from minerals, leading to rock decomposition.

What role does water play in chemical weathering?

Water acts as a solvent and reacts with minerals to facilitate their dissolution.

What are zones of contact in weathering?

Areas where weathering agents interact with rock surfaces, such as microscopic openings and joints.

What is mass wasting?

The gravity-driven downslope movement of weathered rock and soil.

Define erosion in the context of weathering.

The removal and transport of rock and soil via water, wind, and ice.

How does weathering contribute to soil formation?

Weathered rock serves as the parent material for the inorganic component of soil.

What is hydrolysis in chemical weathering?

The process where water breaks down minerals into dissolved forms.

What is carbonation?

A process where carbon dioxide makes water acidic, facilitating the dissolution of minerals.

What is an example of a weathering agent?

Plants, microbes, atmospheric gases, or temperature changes.

Why is understanding weathering important for natural hazards?

It influences landscape stability, hydrological processes, and can pose risks to life and property.