Weathering

The gradational cycle is the Earth's natural attempt to bring itself back to homeostasis - otherwise known as base level (sea level). Tectonic forces shape the earth by triggering mountain building, volcanism and faulting processes, while gradational forces work as an opposing force to flatten the earth.

Today's class focused on a review of the gradational cycle:

1. Weathering and Rock Breakdown
2. Transportation of weathered material
3. Deposition of sediment

And a brief review of the two main types of weathering - physical (mechanical) and chemical. It is important for you to understand:

• The main types of weathering (ex. frost shatter/solution)
• Where chemical and physical weathering are most likely to occur
• The fact that physical weathering breaks down rock and chemical weathering creates soil
• Tips on how to detect whether physical or chemical weathering is taking place (ex. chemical = rounded edges of rock, change in colour indicates change in chemical composition)

Two handouts have been uploaded to gradational section, and there is a reminder of your quiz on Friday on weathering/mass wasting

HW: Choose 6 different examples of either physical or chemical weathering and bring in an artifact/symbol to represent each type. You should be able to explain why you chose that example to represent - ex. exfoliation