The process that turns rocks into soil is called **weathering**. Weathering is the breakdown of rocks into smaller particles by physical, chemical, or biological processes. Here's how it happens:
1. **Physical Weathering**: This occurs when rocks are broken down into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. Examples of physical weathering include frost action, pressure release, and abrasion by wind and water.
2. **Chemical Weathering**: In this type of weathering, rocks are broken down by chemical reactions that alter their composition. Common processes of chemical weathering include hydration, oxidation, and dissolution.
3. **Biological Weathering**: Biological agents like plants, animals, and microorganisms can contribute to the breakdown of rocks through their growth, burrowing, or secretion of acids that accelerate weathering processes.
By understanding the various mechanisms of weathering, we can see how rocks are gradually transformed into soil over time.
