2.2 weathering and erosion
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Transcript of 2.2 weathering and erosion
Weathering
Weathering is the breaking down of rocks, soils and minerals as well as artificial materials
through contact with the Earth's atmosphere, biota and waters.
How is a plant or animal an agent of mechanical weathering? Plants and animals are agents of mechanical weathering. The seed of a tree may sprout in
soil that has collected in a cracked rock. As the roots grow, they widen the cracks, eventually breaking the rock into pieces. Over time, trees can break apart even large rocks. Even small
plants, such as mosses, can enlarge tiny cracks as they grow.
Animals that tunnel underground, such as moles and prairie dogs, also work to break apart rock and soil. Other animals dig and trample rock aboveground, causing rock to slowly
crumble.
Erosion
Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from the Earth's
surface by natural processes such as wind or water flow
Rain water is slightly acidic
Rain water is slightly acidic because Carbon dioxide forms carbonic acid
when mixed with water
soil and climate related
Warmer temperatures and high rainfall increase rate of soil formation. Cooler
temperatures and less rain slow it down.
Conserve soil
Some ways to conserve soil are Contour farming/shelter belts, cover
crops, and strip crops.