Physical Weathering - Freeze-thaw. Rain enters a crack, freezes if temperatures reach below 0, and then expands, forcing the crack open, Chemical Weathering - Rain is slightly acidic. The acid in the rain can react with the minerals in rocks. , Biological Weathering - Tree roots and plant roots can grow in to rock cracks and force them open. , Soil Creep - Individual particles of soil move slowly down a slope under the force of gravity, and collect at the bottom of the valley sides. , Slumping - The bottom of the valley side is eroded by the river. The slope becomes steeper and the material above slides downwards. , Hydraulic Action - The sheer force of the water hits the river bed and banks, wearing them away. , Abrasion - Rocks within the water scour against the river bed and bands. , Attrition - Rocks within the water collide with each other and break in to smaller pieces. , Solution (erosion) - River water is slightly acidic, so it will dissolve some rocks and minerals in contact with the river. , Traction - Large boulders and rocks are rolled along the river bed. , Saltation - Pebbles and smaller rocks are bounced along the river bed. , Suspension - Small bits of silt and sand are held in the water, and carried. , Solution (Transportation) - Rocks and minerals can be dissolved in the water, and then carried, Deposition - A river loses its energy, as the velocity decreases, and the rocks held within the water will settle on the river bed. ,

Rivers Key Terms

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