Rock weathering is the process by which rocks and minerals are broken down and altered by various environmental factors such as temperature changes, chemical reactions, and the actions of organisms. This can occur through physical processes like freeze-thaw cycles, chemical reactions with water and gases, and biological activities such as the growth of plant roots and microorganisms. Rock weathering plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's surface and is a key component of the larger processes of erosion and sedimentation. Researchers in this area study the mechanisms and rates of rock weathering, as well as its impacts on landscapes, ecosystems, and the carbon cycle. They also investigate how different types of rocks and minerals respond to weathering processes and how these interactions influence the environment.