Objectives for the topic: Weathering and Soils

Reading: Chapter 5 in Tarbuck and Lutgens

Images to understand: 5.2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 21

After completing this topic, the student will be able to:

1. Describe the processes and products of mechanical weathering.
2. Describe the processes and products of chemical weathering.
3. Name the processes responsible for domed granite surfaces of Yosemite valley.
4. Describe the rates at which weathering processes occur and what factors affect the weathering rate.
5. Describe the formation of clay minerals.
6. Name the rock type formed by lithification of clays.
7. Explain the tendency of some rock types to form cliffs whereas others form gentle slopes.
8. Define soil.
9. Sketch a typical soil profile (one based on bedrock).
10. Describe how climate and bedrock affect soil formation.
11. Describe some human activities that threaten our soil resource.