1. Weathering: This is the process that breaks down rocks, soil, and minerals through physical or chemical means. It happens *before* erosion.
2. Erosion: This is the process that transports weathered material from one location to another. It follows weathering and is often driven by wind, water, or ice.
3. Deposition: This is the process where the eroded material is dropped or settled in a new location. It happens *after* erosion.
Think of it like this:
* Weathering: You smash a rock into smaller pieces.
* Erosion: You pick up those smaller pieces and carry them away.
* Deposition: You drop those pieces in a new location.
Example:
* Weathering: Rainwater seeps into cracks in a rock, freezes, expands, and widens the cracks.
* Erosion: The widened cracks allow water to flow more easily, carrying away rock fragments.
* Deposition: The water slows down and deposits the rock fragments in a riverbed or at the bottom of a lake.
