Factors Affecting the Process of Weathering - UPSC Mains Answer
Weathering is the process that breaks down rocks into smaller pieces through physical, chemical, and biological means.
Factors Affecting the Process of Weathering Weathering is the process that breaks down rocks into smaller pieces through physical, chemical, and biological means. This happens naturally over time and is influenced by several important factors. Let's understand these factors in detail and in simple language: Geological Factors: Type of Minerals in the Rock: Some minerals are strong and don't break easily, like quartz. Others, like feldspar, break down faster. So, rocks made of weak minerals weather quickly. Structure of the Rock: Rocks with cracks, holes, or spaces inside them break down faster because air, water, and plant roots can enter easily. Size of the Rock Grains: Rocks with small grains (fine-grained) break down faster due to chemical reactions. Big-grained rocks break apart more through physical forces like freezing and thawing. Topographical Factors: Slope of the Land: On steep slopes, broken rock pieces are carried away quickly by gravity, rain, or wind, which limits chemi…