weathering processes

Question 1

What is weathering?

Answer 1

Gradual break down of the the coastal landscape

Question 2

Name the weathering processes

Answer 2

• wetting and drying
• slat crystallisation
• biological weathering
• chemical weathering (carbonation and oxidation)
• freeze thaw

Question 3

What is wetting and drying?

Answer 3

Cliff becoming wet and expanding then drying which constricts it and weakens the joints

Question 4

What is salt crystallisation?

Answer 4

Sea water splashes on cliff and dries leaving salt crystals which exert pressure on cliff

Question 5

What is biological weathering?

Answer 5

Natural processes

• rooots of plants in the cliff
• animals burrowing in the cliff

Question 6

What is carbonation?

Answer 6

Sea water + carbon dioxide makes sea water slightly acidic which can dissolve rock

Question 7

What is oxidation?

Answer 7

Rock minerals + oxygen break up the rock

Question 8

What is freeze thaw?

Answer 8

Water everting the cliff and expanding in the day and freezing in the night which constricts it and weakens the joints