Weathering 1 Physical mechanical breaking of rocks produces

Weathering 1. Physical (mechanical breaking of rocks) produces clastic sediment CLASTIC sedimentary rocks 2. Chemical (chemical breakdown of rocks) produces ions in solution CHEMICAL sedimentary rocks

Weathering and Ore Deposits How can weathering affect mineral resources? • Produce new minerals – E. g. , Hydrolysis of feldspar --- Kaolinite and bauxites – Redistribution of valuable elements – Supergene enrichment – Release resistant minerals in place making amenable – for processing E. g. , weathered kimberlite; cassiterite – Release resistant minerals to be concentrated by – sedimentary processes. PLACERS