Earth Science

Confusing Weathering and Erosion

Students say erosion breaks rocks apart when the rocks are actually being weathered.

Quick check

Why students make it

Weathering and erosion often happen in the same place, so they can seem like one process. Students also notice moving water or wind and assume any change to rock caused by them is erosion.

The rule done right

Weathering is the breaking down or chemical changing of rock in place. Erosion is the movement of weathered rock, sediment, or soil from one location to another.

Related resources

weatheringerosionearth-processes