15 Questions
What is the main focus of mechanical weathering?
Breaking down rocks using physical means
How does mechanical weathering differ from chemical weathering?
Mechanical weathering breaks down rocks with physical forces, while chemical weathering uses chemical reactions.
What are the main external factors in the environment that cause mechanical weathering?
Water and temperature changes
How long does it typically take for noticeable changes to occur due to mechanical weathering?
Years to millions of years
What is the eventual outcome of the process of mechanical weathering on Earth's surface features?
Erosion of boulders into sand and sediment
What is the primary cause of thermal expansion weathering?
Temperature changes
Why are rocks in desert climates more susceptible to thermal expansion weathering?
Extreme temperature changes
Which type of weathering involves the force of freezing water expanding and making cracks larger within a rock?
Frost weathering
What is the primary mechanism behind exfoliation weathering?
Pressure release
How does thermal expansion contribute to the formation of grus fragments in desert climates?
By expanding and contracting rocks sharply
What is the main cause of exfoliation weathering according to geologists?
Pressure decrease causing the outer layers to break
How does abrasion weathering differ from salt crystal growth weathering?
Salt crystal growth involves rocks being forced against each other while abrasion involves crystals forming in rock cracks.
Which of the following is NOT a living organism that can contribute to biological weathering?
Mineral salts
What effect do salt crystals have on rocks during salt crystal growth weathering?
They push through and widen cracks in rocks.
How can living organisms contribute to mechanical weathering of rocks?
By growing roots into rock cracks and opening them further.
Explore the concept of mechanical weathering and how it contributes to the continuous transformation of the Earth's surface. From earthquakes to extreme weather events, discover how these processes shape the landscape over time.
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