Biological Weathering

    Weathering is the process that breaks rocks down into smaller pieces, eventully creating soil. Biological weathering is when living materials assist in chemical or mechanical weathering. As seen in the previous photo, a tree has grown out of a rock; but evidently a crack for the seed or root had been created by mechanical or chemical weathering. Feces and urine speeds up the decaying process, creating compost and new dirt. Worms and beatles are natural helpers, by changing old leaves, bark, wind-fallen fruits, and such like into fertile soil, and allow the earth to support life. Below are two cross-section image of soil. Each layer is naturally a different color, highlighting the noble work of little-regarded critters.

Soil Cross Section    Soil Cross Section
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