Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition. Example For Students

Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition. Definition Term The natural process by which atmospheric and environmental agents, such as wind, rain, and temperature changes, disintegrate and decompose rocks. weathering The process by which wind, water, ice, or gravity transports soil and sediment from one location to another. erosion In geology, the process in which material is laid down. deposition The mechanical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces that is caused by natural processes and that does not change the chemical composition of the rock material. physical weathering The chemical breakdown and decomposition of rocks by natural processes in the environment. chemical weathering Wearing away by scraping or rubbing. abrasion separation of successive thin shells, or spalls, from massive rock. exfoliation a reaction with oxygen, occurring when rock is exposed to oxygen in the air or in water; Elements in the rock such as iron or copper combine with oxygen to form new chemical compounds. oxidation precipitation (rain) that is more acidic than normal; caused by chemical air pollutants combining with water vapor in air; the most common pollutants are sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). acid precipitation