Question

Briefly describe biological weathering.

Answer 1

Biological weathering is the weakening and subsequent disintegration of rock by plants, animals and microbes. Growing plant roots can exert stress or pressure on rock. Although the process is physical, the pressure is exerted by a biological process (i.e., growing roots).

Biological weathering isn't really a process, but living organisms can cause both mechanical andchemical weathering to occur. For example: tree roots can grow into fractures in a rock and pry the rock apart, causing mechanical fracturing.

Biological weathering is weathering caused by plants and animals. Plants and animals release acid forming chemicals that cause weathering and also contribute to the breaking down of rocks and landforms. Chemical weathering is weathering caused by breaking down of rocks and landforms.

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