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Definition:
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The mechanical, chemical, or biological action of the atmosphere, hydrometeors, and suspended impurities on the form, color, or constitution of exposed material; to be distinguished from erosion. Mechanical weathering results from the disintegrating action of high or low temperature, large changes of temperature, frost, or the impact of wind-borne sand or water (e.g., frost action, scouring, etc.). Chemical weathering is due to the chemical action of atmospheric constituents, especially acid impurities, in a moist atmosphere or in rainwater (e.g. corrosion, oxidation, etc.). Biological agents are mainly fungi that attack organic material (e.g., rotting, mildew, etc.).
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