Significance of weathering
Topic: Geomorphic Processes: Weathering, Mass Movement, Erosion and Soil Formation · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 5 "Geomorphic Processes"
Meaning
Weathering breaks solid rock into regolith (loose rock cover). This is the first step for soil formation. It also prepares the ground for mass movement and erosion. Without weathering, erosion cannot be significant, though erosion can still happen without it. Forests depend on how deep the weathering mantle is, and biodiversity depends on forests, so weathering supports biodiversity. Weathering also removes some materials and leaves others behind. This enrichment concentrates ores of iron, manganese, aluminium and copper enough to be mined.
Example
In the Western Ghats, a deep weathered layer formed under heavy rain. It supports dense evergreen forests and rich plant and animal life.
Don't confuse with
- Erosion: weathering breaks rock in place. Erosion picks up and carries material away by agents such as running water, wind or glaciers.