Section I: Weathering

Weathering – process
that breaks down rock and
other substances of
Earth’s surface

Erosion – removal of rock
particles by wind, water,
ice or gravity

Together, weathering and
erosion work continuously
to wear down the material
on Earth’s surface.

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LLC

Weathering acts slowly,
but over time will break
down the largest and
hardest of rocks

•Mechanical
weathering rock is
physically broken down
into smaller pieces by
processes

•Chemical weathering
process that breaks
down rocks through
chemical changes

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LLC

Mechanical Weathering

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LLC

Chemical Weathering

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LLC

Important factors
that determine the
rate at which
weathering occur
are:

•Climate – refers to
the average weather
conditions in an
area; both types of
weathering occur
faster in wet
climates
•Type of rock –
some minerals
dissolve faster than
others

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LLC