How do weathering processes in deserts differ from those in temperate or humid climates? (B)

Short Answer

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Weathering processes in deserts primarily involve physical weathering due to the arid climate, such as thermal expansion and contraction, abrasion, and salt weathering. In temperate or humid climates, weathering processes are more diverse, including physical, chemical, and biological weathering, such as frost wedging, chemical reactions, and the influence of plant and animal life. The dominant weathering type, climate influences, and weathering rates are the primary differences between these environments. Overall, weathering rates tend to be slower in deserts due to the arid conditions, while they are generally faster in temperate or humid climates because of the abundance of water and increased temperatures.

Step by step solution

01

Define weathering processes

Weathering processes are the natural processes that break down rocks, soils, and minerals at the Earth's surface. These processes can happen due to physical, chemical, and biological factors. Physical weathering involves the mechanical breakdown of materials, while chemical weathering involves changes in the chemical composition of materials due to reactions with water, air, and other substances. Biological weathering involves the breakdown of materials by living organisms, such as plants and animals.
02

Identify weathering processes in deserts

In deserts, weathering processes mainly consist of physical weathering due to the arid and harsh climate. The most common types of weathering in deserts include: 1. Thermal expansion and contraction: The extreme temperature changes between day and night cause the materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks and eventual breakdown. 2. Abrasion: Windblown sand and dust particles constantly collide with rocks and soil, causing them to gradually erode and break down. 3. Salt weathering: As minimal rainfall evaporates quickly, salts left behind can crystallize, exerting pressure on the rocks and causing them to break apart. Chemical and biological weathering processes are less common in deserts due to the lack of water and vegetation.
03

Identify weathering processes in temperate or humid climates

In temperate or humid climates, the weathering processes are more diverse and can consist of physical, chemical, and biological weathering. Some common weathering processes in these climates include: 1. Frost wedging: Water enters cracks in rocks and freezes, expanding and forcing the cracks to widen and eventually break the rocks apart. 2. Chemical weathering: The abundant presence of water and increased temperature in humid climates lead to more chemical reactions, such as the dissolution of minerals, oxidation, and hydrolysis. 3. Biological weathering: The diverse and abundant plant and animal life in these climates cause weathering through root penetration, burrowing, and the production of organic acids that dissolve minerals.
04

Compare weathering processes in deserts and temperate or humid climates

The main differences between weathering processes in deserts and temperate or humid climates are: 1. Dominant weathering type: In deserts, physical weathering is the most prevalent, whereas, in temperate or humid climates, all types of weathering can be common (physical, chemical, and biological). 2. Climate influences: In deserts, the strong temperature fluctuations and lack of water lead to weathering processes like thermal expansion and contraction, abrasion, and salt weathering. In temperate or humid climates, the presence of water and more abundant plant and animal life lead to processes like frost wedging, chemical weathering, and biological weathering. 3. Weathering rates: Overall, weathering rates tend to be slower in deserts due to the arid conditions, while they are generally faster in temperate or humid climates because of the abundance of water and increased temperatures. In conclusion, the primary differences in weathering processes in deserts and temperate or humid climates are the types of weathering processes that occur and the influences of climate on these processes.

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