What is the process of breaking down and wearing away of rocks called?
a) Deposition
b) Weathering / Erosion
c) Evaporation
d) Condensation
Answer: b) Weathering / Erosion
Explanation
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Weathering: The process of breaking down rocks, soil, and minerals into smaller particles in situ (in place) through atmospheric actions, temperature fluctuations, biological activity, and chemical reactions.
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Physical/Mechanical: Temperature changes (freeze-thaw), pressure release, or root expansion.
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Chemical: Oxidation, hydration, or dissolution by rain acid.
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Biological: Action of plant roots, lichens, and burrowing animals.
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Erosion: The active wearing away and transportation of weathered rock materials from one place to another by natural agents such as moving water, wind, glaciers, and ocean waves.
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Denudation: The overarching geological term that encompasses all processes (weathering, erosion, mass wasting, and transportation) involved in wearing down Earth’s landforms.
Overview of Other Options
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a) Deposition: The laying down or settling of eroded rock fragments, soil, and sediment in new locations (e.g., forming river deltas, sand dunes, or alluvial plains).
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c) Evaporation: The hydrological process where liquid water turns into water vapor due to heat.
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d) Condensation: The hydrological process where water vapor cools and transforms back into liquid water drops (forming clouds).
