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Contributor: Meghan Vestal. Lesson ID: 11137
The idea of rocks floating in water is kind of strange; however, that is one way the earth changes. The rocks and sediment do eventually stop moving, and that's how some natural formations are formed!
Picture this: you're standing at the edge of a majestic canyon, gazing in awe at the towering cliffs and the winding river that carves its way through the rugged landscape.
As a curious young geologist, you know that rocks, minerals, and soil can be broken down into smaller parts through weathering, but there is more to the story!
Delve into the fascinating world of erosion and uncover the incredible forces of nature that shape the planet. Prepare to embark on a riveting journey where rocks, minerals, and soil are broken down, swept away, and transformed by nature's mighty hand.
Get ready to uncover the secrets of erosion as you explore the powerful ways the earth is constantly reshaped.
Weathering is the first phase in the cycle that rocks, minerals, and soil go through as they are broken down, transformed, and moved to new locations.
Mechanical, chemical, and biological weathering work tirelessly to reshape the earth. (Complete the first Related Lesson to learn more.)
After rocks, minerals, and soil have been weathered, they go through a process called erosion.
During erosion, sediments are moved from one location to another by natural forces such as water, wind, and ice. Ocean tides can move sediments, blown about by wind, and rolled down a mountainside by melting glaciers.
To learn about the relationship between weathering and erosion, watch the following video.
No; eventually, the sediments stop moving. When this happens, deposition has occurred.
Deposition means sediments have been deposited and are no longer moving. To better understand deposition in action, read Rivers & Deltas and watch the video below.
Head over to the Got It? section to review all that you have learned!
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Weathering Related Lessons
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