1. weathering- the breaking down the rock into smaller
particles
2. erosion- the moving of sediment to a new location
3. physical weathering- also known as mechanical
weathering, is the process by which rocks break down
through natural means
4. chemical weathering- any of the various weathering
processes that cause exposed rock to undergo
chemical decomposition (break down of rock by a
chemical)
5. biological weathering- living organisms, such as plants
and animals, cause rock to decompose
6. frost wedging- water breaks rock when it freezes and
expands
7. exfoliation- removing of the top layer of rocks or soil
due to weathering and erosion
8. thermal expansion- rocks breaking down due to heat
making them expand and break apart
9. dissolution- acidic water eats rock away causing
weathering and erosion
10.
hydrolysis- the softening of the rock feldspar into
clay
11.
oxidation- when iron meets oxygen and moisture
causing rust
12.
lichen- small plant looking fungi that attaches
onto rocks aiding weathering and erosion
13.
sedimentary- rocks formed from erosion,
deposition, compaction, and cementation
14.
metamorphic- rocks formed from heat and
pressure
15.
igneous- rock formed from melting and cooling
16.
humus- decayed organic material usually covering
the forest floor