Rates of Weathering Chapter 10 – Section 2 (Foldable Notes)

Rock Composition  Differential Weathering:  Differential Weathering:A process by which softer, less weather resistant rock wear away and leave harder, more weather resistant rock Devils Tower in WY

Composition of the Rocks   Rocks made up of harder minerals are more resistant to weathering.

Surface Area   The more surface area of a rock that is exposed to weathering, the faster the rock will be worn down.   Increasing the Rate of Weathering If a large rock is broken down into smaller fragments, weathering of the rock happens much more quickly.

Surface Area and Volume

Climate   What Is Climate? Climate is the average weather condition in an area over a long period of time.   The rate of chemical weathering happens faster in warm, humid climates. Water also increases the rate of mechanical weathering.

Elevation   High Elevations Rocks at higher elevations, as on a mountain, are exposed to more wind, rain, and ice than rocks at lower elevations.   Steep Slopes The steepness of mountain slopes increases the effects of mechanical and chemical weathering. Steep slopes cause water and sediments to quickly run down the side of the mountain.