* Exogenic forces are external processes that shape the Earth's surface. They originate from outside the Earth's crust.
* Weathering: This is the breakdown of rocks, soils, and minerals through direct contact with the Earth's atmosphere, biota, and hydrosphere. It's like the first step in erosion.
* Erosion: This is the process of moving weathered material from one place to another. It's the active transport of material.
Here are some specific examples of exogenic forces that erode mountains:
* Weathering:
* Physical Weathering:
* Frost wedging: Water freezes in cracks, expands, and breaks the rock.
* Thermal expansion and contraction: Temperature changes can cause rocks to crack.
* Abrasion: Rocks and sediment are ground against each other by wind, water, or glaciers.
* Chemical Weathering:
* Acid rain: Weak acids in rain dissolve rocks.
* Oxidation: Iron in rocks reacts with oxygen to form rust, which weakens the rock.
* Hydrolysis: Water reacts with minerals in rocks, causing them to break down.
* Erosion:
* Glaciers: Massive sheets of ice carve out valleys and transport rock.
* Rivers: Water flow erodes riverbeds and carries sediment downstream.
* Wind: Wind can blow away loose sediment and sandblast rocks.
* Gravity: Gravity causes rocks to fall and slide downhill, contributing to erosion.
So, while "exogenic forces" is the most accurate term, you can also refer to specific processes like weathering, erosion, and the specific agents like glaciers, wind, or water.
