1. Weathering

2. What is weathering? Weathering—The breaking down of rocks.

3. What is weathering? It makes rocks smaller and smoother over time It eventually turns rocks into sediment and soil

4. Mechanical Weathering Physically breaks rocks up Doesn ’ t change the rock ’ s chemical formula

5. Ways Mechanical Weathering happens: 1. Plant/animal activity 2. Abrasion of wind/water 3. Temperature changes

6. Chemical Weathering Breaks down rocks with chemical reactions Changes the chemical formula of the rock

7. Ways Chemical Weathering happens: 1. Plant Acids 3. Oxidation (rusting) 2. Acids in water/rain

8. Factors that affect the rate of weathering 1. Type of Rock -Sandstone breaks easily, granite is tough

9. Factors that affect the rate of weathering 2. Climate -The wetter and warmer, the faster the weathering

10. Factors that affect the rate of weathering 3. Surface Area -More surface exposed = faster weathering A lot of rock not exposed More surface area = more exposed rock Lots of surface area = most of the rock exposed