Freeze-Thaw

Most rocks are very hard. However, a very small amount of water can cause them to break. When water
seeps into cracks and freezes it then expands. This powerful force can increase the size of cracks. Over
time the repeated freeze-thaw action of water can break rocks apart. Eventually, pieces of rock break off
creating scree.

The image below shows the impact of freeze-thaw on a rock in Iceland.

Evidence of freeze thaw weathering

Evidence of freeze-thaw weathering

Exfoliation or Onion Skin Weathering

This type of erosion is common in warm areas. As the sun shines on rocks during the day it causes them
to expand. During the night the rock contracts due to the colder temperature. Over time this continued
process causes small pieces of surface rock to flake off.

The image below shows a close up of onion skin weathering.

Onion skin weathering