Weathering

What is it?Weathering is when the shape of

a rock is changed• Physical weathering is when a rock breaks into smaller

pieces. The change in the rock is physical with no new substances formed. Atom structure stays the same.Ex - Frost action, abrasion, pressure release

• Chemical weathering is when a rock goes through a chemical reaction with water and atmospheric gases and decomposes. Atoms rearrange and new substances form. Ex - Rusting, acid breakdown, solution weathering

Rust

Acid rain(solution weathering)

Plant Wedging

As this tree grows, you can imagine how this will affect the rock. Some species even release a chemical from their roots that helps decompose the rock too.

Oxidation

Lichen

Ice Wedging

Abrasion

Salt Crystallization