Glossary of Terms. Bronchus / Bronchi / Bronchioles. The airways of the lungs. When a person takes in a breath of air, the air travels through the nose or mouth, into the larynx, then into the trachea, which is the main passageway into the lungs. The trachea divides into a right and left main bronchus.
Plant and animal life, atmosphere and water are the major causes of weathering. Weathering breaks down and loosens the surface minerals of rock so they can be transported away by agents of erosion such as water, wind and ice. There are two types of weathering: mechanical and chemical.
Chemical weathering involves the change in the composition of rocks, often leading to a 'break down' in its form. This type of weathering happens over a period of time. The types of Chemical weathering are: Dissolution: This occurs when rainfall is slightly acidic and gases in the air are added to it. This consequent mix can cause solution weathering of rocks. Hydration: Hydration is a form of chemical weathering that involves the rigid attachment of H+ and OH- ions to the atoms and molecules of a mineral. Hydrolysis: This is a chemical weathering process affecting Silicate minerals. is a chemical weathering process affecting Silicate minerals. In such reactions, pure water ionizes slightly and reacts with silicate minerals. Oxidation: This occurs within the chemical environment and makes the rocks soft.