Difference Between Mechanical Weathering And Chemical Weathering
Now we will discuss about the difference between Mechanical Weathering and Chemical Weathering as mentioned below:
On the basis of |
Mechanical Weathering |
Chemical Weathering |
---|---|---|
Definition |
Mechanical Weathering involves breaking down of the rocks and minerals into the smaller pieces by the application of the mechanical forces. |
Chemical Weathering involves the breaking of rock minerals through chemical reactions. |
Factors involved |
Factors that causes the mechanical weathering are temperature, rocks, plants, water etc. |
Chemical reaction with substances like carbon dioxide, acids, oxygen or water leads to the Chemical weathering. |
Temperature |
It is usually affected by changes in temperature, which can cause rock expansion and contraction. |
Chemical Weathering is predominantly high in hot and humid regions. |
Chemical Composition |
Does not lead to change in the chemical composition of the rocks or minerals. |
Leads to change in the chemical composition of the rocks or minerals. |
Examples |
Freeze thaw weathering, Exfoliation, Salt weathering, Abrasion etc. |
Rusting because of oxidation, Carbonation because of carbonic acid, Hydrolysis converting minerals into new substances etc. |
Mechanical Weathering
Mechanical Weathering, also known as Physical Weathering, is nature’s way of breaking rocks into smaller pieces. Imagine it as rock transformation through a series of natural actions. Factors like temperature, plants, and the rocks themselves play key roles in this process. Temperature takes center stage, causing rocks to expand and contract, slowly breaking them down over time. Plants contribute by sending their roots into rock crevices, applying pressure that eventually leads to rock crumbles. Even rocks, seemingly solid, yield to the wear and tear from wind-blown sand or the relentless force of waves along coastlines.
In this article we’ll discuss about Mechanical Weathering, Its Types, Factors, Process and so on. To know more, Stay Tuned!
Table of Content
- Mechanical Weathering
- What Is Mechanical Weathering?
- How Mechanical Weathering Works?
- Types Of Mechanical Weathering Process
- Stages Of Mechanical Weathering
- Factors Affecting Mechanical Weathering
- Freeze-Thaw Weathering Or Frost Wedging
- Exfoliation Weathering
- Thermal Expansion
- Abrasion Weathering
- Salt Weathering Or Haloclasty
- Difference Between Mechanical Weathering And Chemical Weathering
- Difference Between Mechanical Weathering And Physical Weathering
- Difference Between Mechanical Weathering And Biological Weathering