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Weathering is a process by which rocks and minerals are gradually broken down into smaller and smaller particles.

Weathering of rocks is caused by chemical and mechanical means. Slightly acidic rainwater can react with rock surfaces, dissolving them over time. Rocks can also be affected by organic sources of chemical reactants. Heat from the sun can cause differences in temperature between the surface and the interior of a rock which can cause a loosening of the surface called exfoliation. Liquid water penetrates cracks in the rocks surface where it can freeze and expand, opening up the cracks for further attack in tandem with acidic rainwater. Plant root growth can also cause cracks to further expand, making them more vulnerable to frost expansion and chemical attack. Underlying rock which is exposed due to erosion of the overlying rock becomes free of the pressure it was previously exposed to, causing the rock to expand and break apart. Other means of weathering include the expansion of crystallizing salts that have been taken in by a rock surface, expansion due to the absorption of water, and hydraulic action from crashing waves on seashore rock formations.

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12y ago
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14y ago

Atmospheric Erosion

The Sun's heat causes surface rocks to expand and fracture, and moisture can evaporate. Rain dissolves amospheric gases to form acids that combine with minerals in surface layers. Water can also freeze at night or in winter, expanding cracks and carrying away smaller rocks and dust. Wind and water also carry small particles that can impact and erode rocks, and carry away loose soil.

Biological Erosion

Many plants secrete acids in their roots that dissolve the minerals they need. Root structures also enlarge cracks seeking water. Animals crush surface rocks and deposit organic materials that interact with minerals. Related, but not technically erosion, is the manmade removal of minerals and rocks from on and below the Earth.

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14y ago

Weathering of rocks is caused by chemical and mechanical means. * Slightly acidic rainwater can react with rock surfaces, dissolving them over time. Rocks can also be affected by organic sources of chemical reactants. * Heat from the sun can cause differences in temperature between the surface and the interior of a rock which can cause a loosening of the surface called exfoliation. * Liquid water penetrates cracks in the rocks surface where it can freeze and expand, opening up the cracks for further attack in tandem with acidic rainwater. * Plant root growth can also cause cracks to further expand, making them more vulnerable to frost expansion and chemical attack. * Underlying rock which is exposed due to erosion of the overlying rock becomes free of the pressure it was previously exposed to, causing the rock to expand and break apart. * Other means of weathering include the expansion of crystallizing salts that have been taken in by a rock surface, expansion due to the absorption of water, and hydraulic action from crashing waves on seashore rock formations.
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9y ago

Weathering is the process over time of rocks breaking apart. It can be caused from rivers flowing quickly or when water freezes in the small crevices of rocks.

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11y ago

erosion

Water

Earthquakes

all done :)

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15y ago

Water, ice, and plant growth.

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12y ago

The weather.

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12y ago

Wind, water, and rocks

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13y ago

like snowing,rainy,and storming

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Q: What can cause weathering of rocks?
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