Weathering (Class 11 Geography)
What do you mean by the term “Weathering”?
Weathering is defined as the mechanical disintegration and chemical decomposition of rocks through the actions of various elements of weather and climate. Weathering is the action of elements of weather and climate over the earth’s materials.
What are the different processes of Weathering?
The different processes of weathering are : Chemical Activity ; Physical Activity and Biological Activity.
What do you mean by “Physical Processes” in weathering?
Physical or mechanical weathering processes depend on some applied forces. The applied forces could be:
(i) gravitational forces such as overburden pressure, load and shearing stress;
(ii) expansion forces due to temperature changes, crystal growth or animal activity;
(iii) water pressures controlled by wetting and drying cycles.
What is Salt Weathering?
Salts in rocks expand due to thermal action, hydration and crystallisation. Many salts like calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium and barium have a tendency to expand. Expansion of these salts depends on temperature and their thermal properties.
Mention the significance of Weathering.
The significance of weathering are as follows:Weathering processes are responsible for breaking down the rocks into smaller fragments and preparing the way for formation of not only regolith and soils, but also erosion and mass movements. Biomes and biodiversity is basically a result of forests (vegetation) and forests depend upon the depth of weathering mantles.
Weathering| Class 11 Geography Notes
Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks, minerals, and other materials on the Earth’s surface. It is a natural process that is caused by a variety of factors, including wind, water, ice, temperature changes, and plants and animals. Weathering can occur in a variety of different environments, from deserts to mountains to oceans. Weathering is an important process because it helps to create soil, which is essential for plant growth. It also helps to shape the Earth’s surface by breaking down rocks and creating new landforms. Weathering can also have a negative impact on human activities, such as by causing erosion and damage to buildings and infrastructure.
Table of Content
- Weathering: Processes and Significance
- Weathering: Processes
- Chemical Weathering Processes
- Physical Weathering Processes
- Biological Activity