Changes

Elements are released from rocks through weathering− the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller components.

Elements are released from rocks through weathering− the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller components.

[[FIG 4]]

[[File:UNN_Medical_Geology_Fig_4.png|thumb|400px|{{figure number|4}}]]

Physical weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller chunks without altering its mineral content. It occurs through temperature changes and by the action of the wind. Temperature variation leads to the development of flakes on the rocks whose removal exposes subsequent layers to further heating and cooling and, then, to chemical weathering. Physical disintegration of rocks is also caused by the action of burrowing animals and plant roots. Freezing of water in crevices of rocks is another force that disintegrates rocks making them prone to chemical weathering (Selinus et al, 2010).

Physical weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller chunks without altering its mineral content. It occurs through temperature changes and by the action of the wind. Temperature variation leads to the development of flakes on the rocks whose removal exposes subsequent layers to further heating and cooling and, then, to chemical weathering. Physical disintegration of rocks is also caused by the action of burrowing animals and plant roots. Freezing of water in crevices of rocks is another force that disintegrates rocks making them prone to chemical weathering (Selinus et al, 2010).