geograpy, weathering and mass wasting Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is weathering?
The process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces.
True or False: Weathering can occur without the movement of rocks.
True
What are the two main types of weathering?
Mechanical weathering and chemical weathering.
Fill in the blank: ________ weathering involves the physical breakdown of rocks.
Mechanical
What is chemical weathering?
The process that alters the chemical composition of rocks.
Which type of weathering is responsible for the formation of soil?
Both mechanical and chemical weathering contribute to soil formation.
What is mass wasting?
The movement of rock and soil down a slope due to gravity.
True or False: Mass wasting can occur rapidly or slowly.
True
What is a landslide?
A rapid form of mass wasting that involves the sudden and fast movement of rock and soil.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is NOT a type of mass wasting? A) Landslide B) Creep C) Erosion
C) Erosion
What factors influence mass wasting?
Slope steepness, water content, vegetation, and rock type.
Fill in the blank: The gradual movement of soil down a slope is known as ________.
Creep
How does water affect weathering and mass wasting?
Water can increase the rate of both weathering and mass wasting by adding weight and promoting chemical reactions.
What role does vegetation play in mass wasting?
Vegetation can stabilize slopes and reduce the likelihood of mass wasting.
True or False: Human activities can increase the risk of mass wasting.
True
What is frost wedging?
A mechanical weathering process where water seeps into cracks, freezes, and expands, causing rock to break apart.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a type of chemical weathering? A) Hydrolysis B) Frost wedging C) Landslide
A) Hydrolysis
What is the difference between weathering and erosion?
Weathering is the breakdown of rocks, while erosion is the movement of those broken pieces.
Fill in the blank: The process of transporting weathered materials is known as ________.
Erosion
What is soil erosion?
The removal of the top layer of soil due to wind, water, or human activity.
True or False: Mass wasting can lead to the formation of new landforms.
True
What is a rockfall?
A type of mass wasting where rocks fall freely from a cliff or steep slope.
Multiple choice: Which of the following factors does NOT influence weathering? A) Climate B) Time C) Population density
C) Population density
What is the significance of weathering in the rock cycle?
Weathering breaks down rocks, contributing to soil formation and the recycling of minerals.
