Introduction: Weathering The breakdown of rock At the earth's surface, rocks are exposed to the effects of weathering: the chemical alteration and mechanical breakdown of rock, when exposed to air, moisture and organic matter Weathering is an integral part of the rock cycle Weathering converts rock to regolithIntroduction: Weathering— The Breakdown of Rock ◼ At the Earth’s surface, rocks are exposed to the effects of weathering: the chemical alteration and mechanical breakdown of rock, when exposed to air, moisture, and organic matter. ◼ Weathering is an integral part of the rock cycle. ◼ Weathering converts rock to regolith