the process that breaks down and changes rock
What is erosion?
look up 'erode.' it's like wearing away. and weathering is wearing away by weather, either mechanical or chemical.
The process that breaks down and changes rock is called weathering. Weathering is the natural process by which rocks are broken down into smaller pieces or undergo changes in their composition. There are two main types of weathering: mechanical weathering and chemical weathering.
1. Mechanical Weathering: This type of weathering involves physical forces that break rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. Some common mechanical weathering processes include:
- Frost wedging: Water seeps into cracks in rocks, and when it freezes, it expands, causing the rock to break apart.
- Abrasion: Rocks can be worn down by the rubbing or scraping action of other rocks, water, wind, or ice.
- Thermal expansion and contraction: Repeated heating and cooling of rocks can cause them to expand and contract, leading to cracks and eventual breakage.
2. Chemical Weathering: Chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration of rocks through various processes. Some common chemical weathering processes include:
- Dissolution: Minerals in rocks dissolve in water over time. For example, limestone can be dissolved by weak acid rainwater.
- Oxidation: Certain minerals in rocks react with oxygen in the air, causing them to change their composition and possibly leading to the formation of rust.
- Hydrolysis: Water reacts chemically with minerals in rocks, leading to the breakdown of the rock structure.
It's important to note that weathering occurs over long periods of time and is influenced by factors such as climate, temperature, humidity, and the composition of the rock itself.