Name: Date:
Grade and Section:
First Activity in Earth Science | 2nd Quarter
Describing How Rocks Undergo Weathering
a. Theory or Concept
Weathering is the natural process by which rocks break down into smaller particles over
time due to various environmental factors such as water, wind, temperature changes, and
biological activities. There are two primary types of weathering: mechanical weathering
(physical breakdown of rocks) and chemical weathering (breakdown through chemical
changes). Understanding weathering is crucial for learning about soil formation and the
Earth's surface dynamics.
b. Learning Objectives
1. Describe the different types of weathering and their effects on rocks.
2. Identify examples of mechanical and chemical weathering in the environment.
3. Analyze the factors that contribute to the weathering of rocks in various settings.
c. Materials
Small rocks or pebbles
Water (in a spray bottle or container)
Vinegar (to simulate acidic rain)
Freezer (or ice pack)
Hammer (for controlled physical impact)
Paper and pencil for recording observations
Magnifying glass (optional)
Sandpaper (for mechanical abrasion simulation)
d. Procedures
1. Mechanical Weathering Simulation
o Place a small rock in the freezer for a few hours or overnight to simulate the
expansion of water in cracks during cold weather. After freezing, observe if any
visible cracks or changes occur.
o Use sandpaper to gently rub the surface of another rock, simulating abrasion.
Record changes to the rock’s surface.
o Carefully tap the rock with a hammer (do not break it entirely) to simulate
physical impact such as landslides or human activities. Record any visible
changes.
2. Chemical Weathering Simulation
o Pour a small amount of vinegar over a rock. Observe and record any visible
reactions (such as fizzing, indicating a chemical reaction between the acidic
vinegar and the rock’s minerals).
o Spray water on another rock and leave it in the sun for a few hours to simulate
the effects of moisture and heat in weathering. Record any visible changes after
exposure.
e. Data and Results / Illustrations (Please answer this on a separate sheet and refer on
the details given below and include pictures in the conduct of the activity)
Type of Method of Observation
Observation After
Weathering Simulation Before
Mechanical Description of
Freezer Any visible cracks or changes?
(Freezing) rock
Mechanical Smoothness of
Sandpaper Smoother, rougher, or worn?
(Abrasion) rock
Mechanical
Hammer Condition of rock Chips, cracks, or changes?
(Impact)
Chemical (Acid Surface Fizzing, color change, texture
Vinegar
Rain) appearance changes?
Type of Method of Observation
Observation After
Weathering Simulation Before
Chemical Water + sun Surface
Any visible changes?
(Moisture) exposure appearance
f. Guide Questions or Questions for Research
1. What changes were observed after simulating mechanical weathering (freezing,
abrasion, and impact)?
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2. How did the rock respond to chemical weathering simulations with vinegar and water?
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3. Which type of weathering appeared to have the greatest effect on the rocks? Why do
you think this is the case?
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4. In nature, what factors might influence whether a rock undergoes mechanical or
chemical weathering more significantly?
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5. How does weathering contribute to soil formation and landscape changes over time?
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g. Conclusion
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Signature:
