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Chemical Weathering
Chemical weathering involves the process of changing the molecular structure of atoms on the ion level, when unlike sediments move over each other and combine. Common chemical weathering processes include oxidation, hydration, reduction, hydrolysis and carbonation. When chemical weathering takes place, new compounds are formed, like when carbon dioxide and hydrogen ions dissolve in water, forming molecules which mix to form acidic and basic decomposed compounds. Climate drives all the forces of chemical weathering by creating the catalysts of temperature and moisture. Tropical environments are produced when moisture and temperature reach maximum levels. Alkalines and acids result from chemical weathering and merge with lakes, streams and rivers.
Physical Weathering
Physical weathering involves the breakdown of rock by internal or external mechanical means. Stress and strain applied to rocks rupture by abrasion, internal crystallization, thermal (heat) forces, wetting, dehydration and pressure fracturing. Deep rock that has been exposed to the surface by erosion contains different pressure tolerances than surface rock, which causes it to fracture and cleave into smaller segments. Boulders expand and contract due to heat, cold, water and wetness, breaking large sections away, producing rubble, smaller rocks and gravel.
Biological Weathering
Biological weathering happens when rocks and minerals disintegrate due to the presence of living organisms, such as plants, animals and bacteria. Animals burrow, uplifting sediments which mix minerals, thus changing the chemical composition of the soil. Bacteria changes the chemical substances in soil, which can be transported by wind and rain. Trees produce leaves, which carpet the ground, allowing moisture to collect and decompose organic matter. Decomposing animals and plants create methane, which interacts with the soil, changing its chemical makeup.
Products of Weathering
Rocks and minerals become changed when their compounds or specific atoms are completely erased from the surface due to weathering aspects of wind and rain erosion. Weathering on rocks and minerals can come about when specific atoms and compounds are added to the surface. Weathering also occurs when one mass breaks down into two or more distinct masses, yet does not cause any chemical change in the rock or mineral.
Landscape
Weathering from rain, snow and wind changes the profiles of all rock and mineral formations on Earth. Mountains and hills created from uplift undergo weathering by physical forces, limiting their heights and changing their profiles. Mudslides and floods create gullies and canyons, while wind piles sand into dunes. Floods create profuse silt deposits, transporting minerals and nutrients to barren landscapes. Cliff faces topple into rubble piles because of chemical weathering and mechanical pressure. Weathering serves as a checks and balances system, regulating elevations and dispersing minerals for the betterment of the environment.