The breaking down of rocks by the repeated freezing and thawing of water in cracks. The freezing makes the water expand in the crack and forces to the crack to enlarge. When it thaws, the water trickles further into the crack and the process is repeated. Shards of rock known as scree fall away. This process happens in areas where the temperature fluctuates around freezing point (0°C): e.g. mountain areas. This process is sometimes known as freeze-thaw weathering. weathering Back to Resources Associated words
The mechanical weathering process caused by repeated freezing and thawing of water in pores, cracks, and other openings, usually at the surface.
Breaking of rocks by water expanding when it freezes.
the effects of freeze-thaw conditions on pavers.
The process of alternate freezing and thawing of moisture in soil, rock, and other materials, and the resulting effects on materials and on structures placed on or in the ground.
Freezing and thawing of moisture in pavement materials and the resultant effects on them.
In general, cycles of freezing and thawing of water contained in natural or man-made materials. This is especially applied to the disruptive effects of this action. In geology, two basic types of frost action are described: 1) congelifraction, the shattering or splitting of rock material; and 2) congeliturbation, the churning, heaving, and thrusting of soil material.