Weathering, erosion, and deposition are all processes that play a crucial role in changing Earth's surface.
Weathering is the process by which rocks and minerals are broken down into smaller pieces by physical, chemical, or biological means. This can be caused by factors such as wind, water, temperature changes, ice, and even living organisms. Weathering creates loose materials such as sediment and soil.
Erosion occurs when these weathered materials are transported and moved from one place to another by natural agents such as water, wind, ice, or gravity. The forces of erosion can carry away the broken-down rock particles, sediments, and soil, which can result in the removal of material from one area.
Deposition occurs when the transported materials are dropped, or deposited, in a new location. This can happen when the energy of the transporting agent decreases or when the agent encounters an obstacle that slows it down. Deposition can occur in various forms such as sediment settling in a riverbed, sand dunes forming along a coast, or glacial moraines being left behind as a glacier retreats.
Together, weathering, erosion, and deposition synergistically shape and change the Earth's surface. Weathering breaks down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces, which are then transported and moved by erosion. This material is eventually deposited in new locations through deposition. Over time, these processes can lead to the formation of landforms such as valleys, canyons, deltas, beaches, and mountains.
Overall, weathering, erosion, and deposition are interconnected processes that continuously work together to transform the Earth's surface, shaping and reshaping landscapes over millions of years.
How do weathering, erosion, and deposition work together to change earth’s surface? (1 point)
1 answer