CONGELIFRACTION Meaning and
Definition
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Congelifraction is a term used to describe the process by which rocks or other solid materials fragment or break apart as a result of freezing and expansion of water within them. The word is derived from the Latin words "congelare," which means to freeze, and "frangere," which means to break. It specifically refers to the phenomenon occurring when water infiltrates the crevices or microscopic pore spaces of rocks and then freezes, leading to the gradual disintegration of the material.
The process of congelifraction involves several steps. Firstly, during freezing temperatures, water seeps into the cracks and voids in rocks. As the temperature drops further, the water present in these spaces begins to freeze and expand. The expansion generates internal stress, which exerts pressure on the surrounding rock material. Over time, the repeated freezing and thawing cycles increase the internal stress, causing cracks and fractures to develop within the rock. As the rock weakens, it eventually fragments into smaller pieces or even crumbles into loose debris.
Congelifraction is a prominent process in cold regions with frequent freeze-thaw cycles, where it significantly contributes to the weathering and erosion of rocks. This phenomenon plays a crucial role in shaping mountain slopes, river valleys, and rocky landscapes. It is particularly evident in high altitudes, polar regions, or regions with high diurnal temperature variations. By causing the disintegration of rocks, congelifraction permits the transport and redistribution of fragmented material, playing a vital role in the Earth's physical geology.
Common Misspellings for CONGELIFRACTION
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