WEATHERING AND

EROSION

Most rocks are formed at high temperatures and/or under great pressure but
in the absence of oxygen and water.
If later, these rocks become exposed on the earths surface, they will:

a) experience a release of pressure,

b) be subjected to fluctuating temperatures,

c) be exposed to oxygen in the air and

d) be exposed to water.
They are therefore vulnerable to weathering. Weathering is the natural
breakdown of rock and can be distinguished from erosion because it need
not involve any movement of material.

Weathering loosens material which can then be transported by agents of

erosion as running water, ice, the sea and the wind.

The degree of weathering depends on:

a) the structure and mineral composition of the rocks

b) local climate and vegetation

c) the length of time during which weathering takes place.

2 main types of weathering mechanical (physical) and chemical.
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TERMINOLOGY
Weathering is the disintegration and
decomposition of rock in situ - i.e. in its
original position.
Weathering is the first stage in the
denudation or wearing down of the
landscape.
Erosion involves the movement of
weathered material.

 Mechanical (or physical) weathering is the

disintegration of rock into smaller particles by
mechanical processes but without any change in
the chemical composition of that rock.
Occur mostly in areas devoid of vegetation
(deserts, high mountains, arctic regions)
Usually produces sand.
Chemical weathering is the decomposition of
rock resulting from a chemical change.
Produces changed substances and solubles and
usually
forms clay.
Occur mostly in warmer, moister climates with
an
associated vegetation cover.
Although either mechanical or chemical
3
weathering may be dominant in a certain
area,

Biological weathering
Tree/plant roots enter rock fissures and expand causing
cracks to
widen until blocks of rock become detached.