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Chapter 20: Problem 19

What physical weathering processes are specifically related to the tundra biome? What types of plants and animals are found there?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Key physical weathering processes in the tundra biome include frost wedging and frost churning, both heavily influenced by the low temperature and freeze-thaw cycles. Plants such as mosses, lichens, sedges, and shrubs are found in the tundra. The animals found there include Arctic Foxes, Snowy Owls, Falcons, and Reindeer, among others.

Step by step solution

01

Description of the Tundra Biome

Tundra is one of the harshest biomes on Earth. It is characterized by extremely low temperatures, frost-molded landscapes, poor nutrients, and short growing seasons. The tundra is found at very high latitudes, primarily the Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Siberia.
02

Identifying Weathering Processes

Weathering process in the tundra biome is heavily influenced by its cold climate. One such process is frost wedging or freeze-thaw, where water seeps into cracks, freezes, expands and then thaws, causing the cracks to widen and deepen. Another process unique to the Tundra is Frost Churning, a phenomenon where the freeze-thaw cycle causes stones and soil to be brought up to the surface.
03

Flora and Fauna in the Tundra

The harsh conditions of the tundra mean that only certain types of plants and animals can survive there. Common tundra plant species include mosses, lichens, sedges, and small shrubs. Animals found in these regions have adapted to the unique challenges they face. These include foxes, Arctic hares, reindeer, and various bird species like Snowy Owls and Falcons, among others.

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