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biological weathering

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Biological weathering is a type of weathering that is caused by living organisms. These organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, can break down rocks and minerals through a variety of processes.

One process of biological weathering is root wedging. This occurs when plant roots grow into cracks in rocks and minerals. As the roots grow, they expand and widen the cracks, which can eventually cause the rocks and minerals to break apart.

Another process of biological weathering is acid production. Some microorganisms produce acids that can dissolve rocks and minerals. For example, lichens, which are a type of fungus that grows on rocks, produce acids that can break down the rocks.

Biological weathering is an important process that helps to shape the Earth's surface. It can contribute to the formation of soil, the development of landscapes, and the erosion of rocks.

How can the word be used?

Biological weathering can cause damage to buildings and infrastructure.

biological weathering

Different forms of the word

Noun:

biological weathering (the process of breaking down rocks and minerals by living organisms).

Adjective:

biological weathering (of or relating to biological weathering).

Verb:

to biologically weather (to break down rocks and minerals by living organisms).

Etymology

The word "biological weathering" is a compound word that comes from the Greek word bios, meaning "life," the Latin word weather, meaning "to wear away," and the suffix -ing, which indicates an ongoing process. The word "biological weathering" first appeared in English in the 19th century, and it refers to the weathering of rocks and minerals by living organisms.

Question

What are the symptoms of biological weathering?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Define "biological weathering" and provide one example of how it contributes to the breakdown of rocks and minerals.

Answer:

Biological weathering is a natural process in which living organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, contribute to the breakdown and alteration of rocks and minerals. One example of biological weathering is the growth of tree roots into cracks in rocks. As the roots expand, they exert pressure on the rock, causing it to fragment and break apart over time.