Frost Weathering
Frost weathering, also known as freeze-thaw weathering, occurs when water seeps into cracks in rocks and freezes. When the temperature drops, the water expands as it freezes, exerting pressure on the surrounding rock. This repeated cycle of freezing and thawing can cause the rock to crack and break apart over time.
This process is most common in regions with fluctuating temperatures, where nights are cold enough for freezing but days are warm enough for thawing. Frost weathering plays a significant role in shaping landscapes, contributing to soil formation, and creating features like boulder fields and rocky slopes.