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.