WORKSHEET #4 (WEATHERING)

QUESTIONS:

1. Define weathering. Explain.

Weathering refers to the breakdown or dissolution of rocks and minerals. Weathering is caused
by a variety of factors including water, ice, acids, salts, plants, animals, and temperature
fluctuations. The transfer of disintegrated or changed material happens in the immediate area of
the rock exposure during the weathering process, but the rock bulk stays in place. Weathering
differs from erosion in that the latter generally entails the movement of fragmented rock and soil
away from the point of deterioration. Weathering, as part of the overall denudation of all
landforms, as well as wind, fluvial, marine, and glacial processes, are all included in a larger
definition of erosion.

2. What is the difference between chemical, physical and biological weathering? Explain.

Physical weathering is a term that indicates a change in a rock's structure but not its
composition. Because it solely causes mechanical changes to the rock's structure, it's also
known as mechanical weathering. Physical weathering is characterized by forces that fracture
rocks, erode rock surfaces, or create fissures inside the rock. The chemical makeup of rocks is
not altered by physical weathering. The chemicals that make up the rocks change as a result of
chemical weathering. The rock may dissolve completely or just become softer and more
susceptible to other kinds of weathering, depending on the chemicals involved. Chemical
weathering degrades the rock, whereas physical weathering breaks it down. Biological
weathering refers to microorganism-mediated processes that can aid in the disintegration of
rocks or improve surface stability.

3. Weathering is a natural process, but human activities can speed up the process of
weathering, how human can speed up the process of weathering? Explain.

Weathering is a natural process however it can be accelerated by human actions. Certain types
of air pollution, for example, hasten the weathering process. Chemicals such as nitrogen oxide
and sulfur dioxide are released into the atmosphere when coal, natural gas, and petroleum are
burned. These compounds become acids when they come into contact with sunshine and
moisture. After that, they return to Earth as acid rain. Limestone, marble, and other types of
stone are swiftly weathered by acid rain. The effects of acid rain may often be visible on
gravestones, making it hard to read names and other inscriptions.

4. What can you do or what ways can prevent the speed up of weathering?

When it's chilly outside, you may decrease weathering by using salt. The water does not freeze
because of the salt. Alternatively, the rock/asphalt/cement fissures might be filled. To reduce
deterioration, wind barriers are often employed.