SPLATS about weathering and erosion

SPLATS about weathering and erosion

For an explanation, see the main splats page

The principles of weathering and erosion

In 1802, John Playfair wrote about geomorphology, giving us 'Playfair's Law', that rivers cut their own valleys, rather than following pre-existing routes.
Rock minerals undergo both physical and chemical changes as they weather to form soil, with some of the soluble products being leached away by groundwater.
When water with dissolved limestone evaporates, a stalactite or stalagmite may form, as soluble calcium hydrogen carbonate forms calcium carbonate.
The loss of rocks from the surface of the earth is balanced by the uplift caused by tectonic forces and also volcanic eruptions.
Rocks weather due to chemical effects caused mainly by the atmosphere and water. Erosion often exposes fresh surfaces to weathering.
Erosion can be caused by wind, water or ice. Plants and animals can have more minor influences on weathering and erosion.

This file is http://members.ozemail.com.au/~macinnis/scifun/, first created on February 23, 2009. Last recorded revision (well I get lazy and forget sometimes!) was on February 23, 2009.

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