2. How does rock turn into soil?

Rock turns into soil through a process called weathering. Weathering is the breakdown of rocks into smaller particles by physical, chemical, or biological processes.

Physical weathering occurs when rocks are broken down into smaller pieces through processes such as freezing and thawing, expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, or the action of wind, water, and ice. For example, when water seeps into cracks in rocks, it can freeze and expand, causing the rock to crack and break apart.

Chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration of rocks, usually through the interaction with water and gases in the environment. Water can dissolve and carry away minerals from rocks, or react with certain minerals to form new substances. For instance, carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can dissolve in rainwater, forming carbonic acid, which can slowly dissolve limestone rocks.

Biological weathering occurs when living organisms, such as plants or animals, contribute to the breakdown of rocks. Plant roots, for example, can grow into cracks in rocks and exert pressure, causing the rock to break apart. Burrowing animals can also disrupt rock structures, aiding in weathering.

Over time, weathering processes break rocks into smaller particles, creating sediments. These sediments can then undergo further changes through processes such as erosion, transportation, and deposition, ultimately leading to the formation of soil. Organic matter, minerals, and other substances may also mix in with the sediments, further enhancing the development of soil.