How do weathering erosion and deposition work together to change earth’s surface
Weathering, erosion, and deposition are all processes that work together to shape and change the Earth's surface.
Weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller particles and dissolved minerals through various physical, chemical, and biological processes. These processes include mechanical weathering (such as freeze-thaw cycles and abrasion) and chemical weathering (such as hydrolysis and oxidation). Weathering weakens the rocks and reduces them to smaller fragments.
Erosion is the process by which these weathered materials are transported and moved from one location to another, mainly by natural agents like water (rivers, streams, and rain), wind, glaciers, and gravity. Erosion removes the weathered materials from their original location and carries them away, exposing new rock surfaces.
Deposition is the final step in this cycle, where the eroded materials are deposited in a new location. It occurs when the energy of the transporting agent decreases, causing it to lose its ability to carry the sediment. The transported particles settle and accumulate, forming layers or deposits known as sedimentary deposits. Over time, these deposits can build up and contribute to the formation of new landforms, such as beaches, deltas, alluvial fans, or sedimentary rock formations.
Together, weathering, erosion, and deposition shape the Earth's surface by breaking down rocks, moving the weathered materials, and depositing them in new locations. This process can create a variety of landforms and features, such as mountains, valleys, canyons, plains, and coastlines. It is an ongoing process that continuously modifies and alters the Earth's surface.