What are the different effects of each agent of weathering to soil formation or shaping of the Earth's surface?
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What are the different effects of each agent of weathering to soil formation or shaping of the Earth's surface?
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Answer:
Weathering is a vital process that contributes to the formation and reshaping of the Earth's surface. The different agents of weathering cause various effects on soil formation and erosion. Let's explore them!
1. Physical Weathering: This agent causes the breakdown of rocks and other materials through mechanical means like water, wind and temperature changes. The physical breaking down of rocks creates smaller pieces which, when mixed with organic matter over time, forms soil. This type of weathering is most visible on rugged, mountainous terrain where the rocks have been pounded into smaller pieces by exposure to environmental elements.
2. Chemical Weathering: This type of weathering occurs when rocks and minerals react chemically with water and other substances in the environment. Oxidation, carbonation, hydrolysis, and acid rain are all examples of chemical weathering that can lead to soil formation. The chemical reaction breaks down the minerals and compound in rocks to form a new type of compound. The type of soil created by chemical weathering is typically dependent on the rock and minerals in the area.
3. Biological Weathering: This is weathering caused by living organisms, such as plants, animals and soil microorganisms. Biological weathering can range from physical weathering caused by animal burrowing to chemical weathering caused by the secretion of acids by some soil bacteria. The process of biological weathering can cause significant changes to an environment over a long period of time.
In conclusion, the different agents of weathering contribute to soil formation and the reshaping of the Earth's surface in different ways. Understanding these processes can help us appreciate the dynamic nature of the Earth's surface.