Geological Processes: Mass Movement, Glaciers, Weathering, and Erosion

These flashcards cover key concepts related to mass movement, glacial formation and movement, weathering, and erosion.

What is mass movement in geology?

The downslope movement of soil, rock, and sediments due to gravity.

What is deposition?

The laying down of sediments to form new landforms.

What causes material to move down a slope in mass movement?

Gravity is the force that pulls everything towards the center of the Earth.

What is creep in geological terms?

A very slow movement of rock and soil, often caused by freezing and thawing of water.

What defines a glacier?

A large mass of ice that moves over land.

What are the two types of glaciers?

Continental glaciers and valley glaciers.

How do glaciers impact the terrain?

Glaciers modify terrain through picking and abrasion.

What is the process called when glaciers pick up and incorporate rocks?

Picking.

What happens when a glacier melts?

It deposits collected sediments, forming many landforms.

What is till in the context of glaciology?

A mixture of sediments deposited by a glacier.

What is the definition of physical weathering?

The breaking down of rocks without altering their composition.

What is chemical weathering?

Weathering that changes the chemical composition of rocks.

What are landforms?

Natural features of Earth's surface such as mountains, valleys, etc.

What are some examples of landforms created by glaciers?

Moraines, kettles, cirques, U-shaped valleys.

What is the primary force responsible for erosion?

Gravity.