Download Physical processes vocabulary

Physical Geography:
Physical Processes
shaping Earth
Student Expectations:
(6) Geography. The student understands that geographical patterns result
from physical environmental processes. The student is expected to:
(A) describe and explain the effects of physical environmental
processes such as erosion, ocean currents, and earthquakes on
Earth's surface;
(C) analyze the effects of the interaction of physical processes
and the environment on humans.
Source: TEA
Student Expectations:
(22) Social studies skills. The student communicates in written,
oral, and visual forms. The student is expected to:
(A) use social studies terminology
correctly;
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
weathering - the breaking down of rocks by
physical and chemical processes, such as
wind, rain, freezing and thawing, and reaction
with chemicals in water.
A natural process that causes rock to
change, breaks them down, and causes
them to crumble. It can be mechanical or
chemical
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
 erosion - the gradual wearing away of
Earth's surface by the action of wind, water,
ice and gravity.
 process of moving water and wind across
the earth’s surface, leaving the land less
fertile than before.
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
Mountain building- two continental plates
slowly push into one another and fold upwards
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
volcano - a thicker continental plate slides
over a thinner plate and the downward force of
the lower plate causes molten rock to build up
and erupt
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
Ring of Fire – a zone of volcanoes and
frequent earthquakes around the Pacific Ocean
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
fault – two plates pulling apart and the plate
movements cause a break or crack in the
Earth’s crust
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
earthquake – plate movements cause
vibrations
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
 tsunami - a huge, destructive wave caused
by an earthquake or a volcanic eruption.
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
 tide – the periodic rise and fall of the surface
level of the oceans
Vocabulary:
Physical Processes
seismograph –used to measure the seismic
waves or vibrations of an earthquake