Erosion and Deposition Breaking Down Processes n Weathering

Erosion and Deposition

Breaking Down Processes n Weathering n n Erosion n n The breaking down of the earth’s material by natural processes. The process by which weathered rock and soil particles are moved from place to place. Deposition n The process by which weathered sediments are laid down in a new location creating new landforms.

5 Agents of Erosion n n Gravity Glaciers Wind Surface Water / Running Water Ocean Shoreline / Ocean Waves

Gravity n Pulls rock and soil down a slope n Called Mass Movement n Rapid n n Rockslides Mudflow Avalanche Slow n n Slump Creep

Mass Wasting

Glaciers n n n Carry very large to very small debris Most powerful agent Deposits n n n Form piles called moraines Drumlins – little mounds Glacial lakes Kettle lakes U-shaped valleys

Glacial Erosion

Wind n Removes loose material from the earth’s surface. n n n Amount of material carried depends on wind speed Most active in deserts, plowed fields, beaches Deposits by wind n n Loess- layer of fine silt or sand Dunes- mounds of sand

Wind Erosion

Running Water n MAJOR CAUSE OF EROSION n When water moves it carries particle called the load. n n n Speed of water determines the size of the load Creates canyons and valleys River deposits n n n Delta Oxbow lake Flood plains

Waves n n Constantly erode and shape the shoreline. Formation n Sea cliffs Sea stacks and caves Deposits n n Beaches Spits sand bars Barrier Islands