What happens to surface area as particle size decreases?

As particle size decreases, the surface area increases. This is because when a larger object is broken down into smaller pieces, each piece has its own surface area that is exposed to the surrounding environment. Consequently, the total surface area of all the smaller particles combined is greater than that of the original larger object.

An increase in surface area facilitates a higher rate of weathering, particularly chemical weathering. This is because more surface area allows for more interaction with water, air, and other reactive chemicals, leading to a faster breakdown of minerals present in the rocks and sediments. In this way, smaller particles are more susceptible to weathering processes than larger ones.

The understanding of this relationship is essential for grasping how physical and chemical processes shape the Earth's surface and influence landscapes over time.