Weathering Processes and Types

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the definitions, agents, examples, and climatic conditions associated with physical, chemical, and biological weathering as described in the lecture notes.

Physical Weathering

The disintegration of rock without any change in its chemical composition, often occurring in cold and arid climates.

Chemical Weathering

The process by which chemicals in rainwater react with minerals in rocks, causing them to decompose or change their mineral composition.

Biological Weathering

The breakdown of rocks caused by the growth and activities of living organisms such as plants, animals, and microbes.

Wind Weathering

Weathering caused by the blowing of grains of sand against a rock surface.

Rain and Wave Weathering

Weathering that occurs by slowly wearing rock away over long periods of time.

Acidic Rainwater

Rainwater that has dissolved $CO_2$ from the air, making it slightly acidic and capable of reacting with minerals in rock.

Root Weathering

A biological process where plant roots grow into rocks causing cracks and produce acidic juices that break down rock material.

Burrowing Animals

Animals such as rabbits and rats that contribute to biological weathering by loosening and breaking rocks through their activities.

Physical Weathering Agents

The main forces involved in disintegration, including temperature, frost, and pressure.

Chemical Weathering Agents

The main substances involved in decomposition, including water, oxygen, $CO_2$, and acids.

Physical Weathering Examples

Common processes such as frost action and exfoliation.

Chemical Weathering Examples

Specific chemical reactions including carbonation, oxidation, and hydrolysis.

Biological Weathering Examples

Specific instances of life-driven breakdown such as root wedging and the production of organic acids.

Cold and Arid Climate

The typical climate environment where physical weathering is most common.

Hot and Humid Tropical Climate

The typical climate environment where chemical weathering is most prevalent.