Science glossary film: Weathering

The breakdown of rock into smaller pieces by physical and chemical processes at the Earth's surface. Water, repeated freezing and thawing, wind-borne particles, plant roots and burrowing animals all contribute to weathering. Weathering is not the same as erosion, which is the removal of this surface material. Both processes work together to sculpt landscapes, and form soil and sedimentary rocks.

Water, repeated freezing and thawing, wind-borne particles, plant roots and burrowing animals all contribute to weathering. Weathering is not the same as erosion, which is the removal of this surface material. Both processes work together to sculpt landscapes, and form soil and sedimentary rocks.