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W.E.D.
Weathering, Erosion and Deposition
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Weathering | A process in which rocks at Earth's surface are gradually broken down into smaller pieces and eventually into soil. |
Erosion | The geological process in which earthen materials are worn away and transported by natural forces such as wind or water. |
Chemical Weathering | A process in which rocks are transformed and worn away by chemical reactions. For example, dissolving of limestone and the transformation of minerals into clay. |
Mechanical Weathering | A process in which rocks are physically worn away without changing their chemical composition. |
Frost Wedging | A process of mechanical weathering in which water seeps into cracks and freezes. The ice puts pressure on the rock, enlarging the crack. |
Root Wedging | A process of mechanical weathering in which roots grow into the cracks in rocks and force the cracks open as they grow. |
Deposition | The geological process in which sediments, soil and rocks are added to a landform or land mass. Wind, ice, water and gravity transport previously weathered surface material which is deposited, building up layers of sediment. |
Sediment | Weathering breaks rock down into smaller pieces called sediment. |