Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks, soils and minerals. Physical weathering, where the rock simply breaks apart, involves the direct effect of pressure, water, heat and ice. Chemical weathering is the result of atmospheric or biologically produced chemicals reacting with the rock's minerals - changing them so that the rock disintegrates. Both processes often occur at the same time.
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Water can be a key component of both Pysical and Chemical Weathering.
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