Frost wedging, also known as freeze-thaw weathering, is a type of mechanical weathering process that occurs in cold environments. It happens when water seeps into cracks and crevices in rocks or soil, and then freezes. When water freezes, it expands by about 9%, creating great pressure on the surrounding material. This expansion causes the cracks and crevices to widen, leading to the gradual breakdown of the rock or soil over time. This process is particularly effective in areas with repeated freezing and thawing cycles, such as mountain regions or polar environments. Frost wedging can contribute to the formation of talus slopes, rockfalls, and other landforms associated with cold climates.
