Earth’s Surface Processes

Weathering and erosion are natural processes that slowly change Earth’s surface over time. Weathering is the breaking down of rocks into smaller piece

Mechanical weathering is the physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. This process happens when ro

Chemical weathering is the process of breaking down rocks through chemical changes. Unlike mechanical weathering, which breaks rocks physically, chemi

Weathering is the natural process that breaks down rocks into smaller pieces. Both mechanical and chemical weathering shape Earth’s surface, but the r

Soil is an essential part of Earth’s surface that supports plants, animals, and ecosystems. It is made up of minerals, organic matter, water, and air,

Soil is one of Earth’s most important natural resources. It forms over long periods from the breakdown of rocks and the remains of plants and animals.

Soil is made up of different layers, known as soil horizons, which develop over time through weathering, decomposition, and the movement of materials.

Soil is not the same everywhere. It comes in different types, each with unique properties that affect plant growth, water retention, and how the land

Soil is one of Earth’s most valuable natural resources, but it can be lost through erosion—the process of soil being worn away by wind, water, and hum

Soil is essential for plant growth, water filtration, and supporting ecosystems, but it can be lost due to erosion, deforestation, and poor farming pr

Composting is a natural process that transforms food scraps, leaves, and other organic waste into nutrient-rich soil. Microorganisms, worms, and insec

As streams and rivers flow, they carry sediments like soil, sand, and small rocks. When the water slows down, it loses energy and begins to drop or de

Groundwater is water that moves slowly through spaces in soil and rock beneath Earth’s surface. Over time, groundwater can cause erosion by dissolving

As groundwater moves through underground spaces and rock layers, it can carry dissolved minerals with it. When the water reaches open spaces like cave

Waves constantly crash against coastlines, slowly wearing away rock and soil. This process is called wave erosion. Strong waves can break apart cliffs

Deposition by wind is the process where wind-carried sediments, such as sand and dust, are dropped in a new location. This occurs when the wind slows

Waves not only erode coastlines, but they also build them. When waves lose energy, they drop the sand, gravel, and other materials they carry. This pr

Glaciers are large, slow-moving masses of ice that shape the land through erosion and deposition. As glaciers move, they pick up rocks, soil, and debr

Shorelines are constantly changing because of erosion, deposition, storms, and rising sea levels. Waves can wear away beaches and cliffs, threatening

As glaciers move, they pick up rocks, soil, and debris. When the ice melts, the glacier drops or deposits these materials, creating new landforms. Thi

Water erosion happens when moving water carries away soil, sand, and rocks. Runoff from rain or melting snow flows over land, picking up loose particl

Streams that begin in the mountains help shape the land as they flow. When the water moves quickly down steep slopes, it carries rocks and sediments w

Erosion by wind is a natural process that moves sediment, soil, and small particles from one place to another. Strong winds pick up loose material and

Gravity is a natural force that causes erosion and deposition by pulling rocks, soil, and sediments downhill. This process is known as mass movement a

Flood maps are essential tools that help cities identify areas most likely to flood during heavy rainfall or storms. These maps display elevations, wa