Erosion & Exogenic Processes: Weathering Quiz

Study Notes

Water Interaction Processes

Hydrolysis involves the chemical reaction between water and minerals, altering the mineral structure, while hydration refers to the physical addition of water molecules to substances without changing their structure.

Coastal Erosion

The primary agent of erosion that reshapes coastlines is wave action, where the relentless movement of ocean waves can gradually wear away rocks and sediments.

Triggers of Mass Wasting

Mass wasting is triggered by factors such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, and volcanic activity, leading to the sudden movement of soil and rock downslope due to gravity.

Weathering and Transport of Materials

The primary process for wearing away and transporting earthen materials by natural forces is erosion, driven by wind, water, ice, and gravity.

Impact of Oxidation on Rocks

Oxidation primarily results in the alteration of minerals within rocks, causing them to weaken, change color, and ultimately break down over time.

Temperature-Induced Weathering

Temperature changes cause physical weathering through expansion and contraction of rock materials, leading to cracks and eventual disintegration.

Acidic Weathering Process

Weathering caused by carbon dioxide dissolving in rainwater, creating a weakly acidic solution, is known as chemical weathering, which enhances the breakdown of minerals.

Freeze-Thaw Weathering Mechanism

Freeze-thaw weathering occurs as water seeps into rock cracks, freezes, expands, and ultimately fractures the rock, a process known as repeated freeze-thaw cycling.

Biological Weathering Source

Weathering caused by organisms such as lichens, which form from symbiotic algae and fungi, is known as biological weathering, as these organisms can produce acids that break down rock.

Exogenic Landform Modification

The exogenic process that involves modifications and transformations of landforms at the Earth's surface includes weathering, erosion, and deposition, all driven by external forces like wind and water.

Description

Test your knowledge of exogenic processes and weathering with this quiz. Learn about constructive and destructive processes above the Earth's surface, as well as the types of physical weathering caused by changing temperatures on rocks.