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This article explores the concepts of weathering and erosion, fundamental geological processes responsible for breaking down and moving rocks and minerals. Weathering can be mechanical, breaking rocks into smaller pieces, or chemical, altering their chemical composition, often driven by moisture. Erosion involves the transportation of weathered materials by agents like water, wind, and glaciers. Notable examples include river systems such as the Nile Delta, which showcase water erosion's impact on landscapes. Understanding these processes is crucial for grasping Earth's ever-changing environment.
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External Changes • Weathering--Breakdown of Rock • Erosion--the movement of weathered materials. The term originates from the • Latin term rodere-- “To gnaw away”
Weathering • Mechanical--breaking rock (material) into smaller pieces. • Chemical--changing the chemical makeup. The key for chemical weathering is moisture. Several common minerals dissolve in water. • Oxygen combines with iron-bearing silicate minerals causing "rusting"
Erosion • Water -- Rivers, Waves • Wind--Anyplace • Glacial--Mountains--U-shaped valleys Sheet Glaciers--Antarctica
An Example of Water Erosion Nile River DELTA
