Weathering is a natural process that breaks down rocks, minerals, and other geological materials at or near the Earth's surface. It is a crucial part of the rock cycle and plays a significant role in shaping the Earth's landscape over time. Weathering can be classified into two main types: mechanical (physical) weathering and chemical weathering. Let's explore each type in detail:

1. Mechanical Weathering:
a. Frost Wedging: Water seeps into cracks in rocks and freezes, causing the water to expand and exert pressure on the surrounding rock, leading to the widening and deepening of the cracks.
b. Exfoliation: The outer layers of rocks are gradually stripped away due to the release of pressure as overlying rocks erode or due to thermal expansion and contraction.
c. Abrasion: Rock surfaces are physically worn down by the frictional forces of wind, water, ice, or gravity.
d. Biological Activity: Plant roots, burrowing animals, and other organisms can contribute to the physical breakdown of rocks as they grow or move.

2. Chemical Weathering:
a. Hydrolysis: Water reacts with minerals in rocks, causing them to break down and form new minerals.
b. Oxidation: Oxygen reacts with certain minerals, such as iron, leading to their chemical breakdown and the formation of rust.
c. Carbonation: Carbon dioxide dissolves in water, creating a weak acid that reacts with certain rocks like limestone, resulting in their dissolution.
d. Acid Rain: Rainwater combines with air pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, creating acidic rain that can accelerate the chemical weathering process.

Weathering is influenced by various factors, including climate, temperature, moisture, vegetation, and the type and composition of rocks. For instance, weathering rates are generally higher in humid and warm climates, where chemical reactions occur more rapidly.

The effects of weathering are widespread and significant. It contributes to the formation of soil by breaking down rocks into smaller particles, facilitating the growth of plants. Weathering also shapes landforms, such as canyons, cliffs, and caves, through the erosion and removal of weathered material. In addition, weathering plays a role in the release and cycling of nutrients and minerals in ecosystems.

Overall, weathering is a fundamental geological process that continuously alters the Earth's surface, influencing the formation of landscapes and the availability of resources.

The process of breaking up and decay of exposed rocks by temperature changes, plant, animal and human activity, etc.