Chapter 12
I.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary Word Definition
Abrasion
Acid rain
Chemical
weathering
Creep
Earthflow
Erosion
Frost wedging
Landslide
Mass movement
Mechanical
weathering
Mudflow
Salinization
Slump
Soil depletion
Soil horizon
Soil profile
Weathering
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II. Comprehension Questions
1. Explain how plants and animals contribute to chemical and mechanical weathering.
2. What is carbonic acid, and how does it affect chemical weathering processes?
3. Which of Earth’s spheres are associated with the production of carbonic acid?
4. Describe two factors that influence the rate of weathering.
5. Use the map on page 266. Compare the soil types found in the Eastern US with those in
the Western US. What type of soil is found where you live?
6. Compare and contrast an earthflow and a mudflow.
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7. Describe some farming methods that can be used to prevent soil erosion.
8. Why are streets and highways damaged so much more in winter months than in
summer months in much of the United States?
9. Discuss the interaction of the atmosphere, lithosphere, biosphere and hydrosphere in
the formation of soil.
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