Here's why:
* Weathering breaks down rocks: Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces. This can be done through physical weathering (like freezing/thawing or abrasion) or chemical weathering (like acid rain or oxidation).
* Soil is made of broken down rock: Soil is a mixture of weathered rock, organic matter, water, and air. The breakdown of rocks through weathering provides the mineral component of soil.
* Weathering creates the foundation for soil: The smaller particles created by weathering provide the foundation for soil formation. These particles can then be mixed with organic matter and other components to create fertile soil.
While other processes like erosion and deposition play a role in soil distribution and movement, weathering is the fundamental process that creates the raw material for soil.
