Weathering: Chemical Weathering: the breakdown of rock into sediments The process by which rocks break down as a result of chemical reactions

Lichen: Mechanical Weathering: Fungi and algae that secrete a weak acid that breaks down rock Mechanical Weathering: The process by which rocks break down as into smaller pieces by physical means

Plant growth: Oxidation: Plant roots looking for water and nutrients break down rock Oxidation: Iron interacts with oxygen and water to form rust that breaks down rocks

Abrasion: Acid Precipitation: Rain, sleet, or snow that contains a high concentration of acids Abrasion: The grinding and wearing away of rock surfaces through the mechanical action of other rocks Or sand (Wind, Water, Gravity)

Erosion: Ice Wedging: Water seeps into cracks during warm weather. When temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands. Erosion: The movement of sediments from one place to another by wind, water, or glaciers

Soil: Deposition: The process in which material is laid down The loose mixture of small mineral fragments, organic material, water, and air that can support the growth of vegetation

Bedrock: Soil texture: Parent rock: A rock formation that is the source of soil Bedrock: The layer of rock beneath soil Soil texture: The soil quality that is based on the proportions of soil particles

Leaching: Humus: Soil conservation: The dark organic material formed in soil from the decayed remains of plants and animals Leaching: The removal of substances that can be dissolved from rock, ore, or layers of soil due to the passing of water Soil conservation: A method to maintain the fertility of the soil by protecting the soil from erosion and nutrient loss