Weathering and Mass Wasting

Abstract

Weathering is a process of a slow continuous breakdown of rocks into smaller particles that are in equilibrium with the prevailing environment (Bland and Rolls 1998). This process involves both decomposition (chemical breakdown) and disintegration (physical breakdown) of rocks and minerals. When particles are moved from their place of formation (either by moving water, wind, glaciers, and gravity), the process is called Erosion. Hence, products of weathering are a major source of sediments for both erosion and deposition. Sedimentary rocks are made of sediments that have once been weathered, eroded, transported, and eventually deposited in basins. Additionally, weathering also contributes to the formation of soil by providing mineral particles like sand, silt, and clay. The fact that oceans are saline is also due to the release of ion salts from rocks and minerals caused by weathering.