Question

What physical weathering processes are specifically related to the tundra biome? What types of plants and animals are found there?

Short answer

Key physical weathering processes in the tundra biome include frost wedging and frost churning, both heavily influenced by the low temperature and freeze-thaw cycles. Plants such as mosses, lichens, sedges, and shrubs are found in the tundra. The animals found there include Arctic Foxes, Snowy Owls, Falcons, and Reindeer, among others.

Step-by-step solution

Description of the Tundra Biome

Tundra is one of the harshest biomes on Earth. It is characterized by extremely low temperatures, frost-molded landscapes, poor nutrients, and short growing seasons. The tundra is found at very high latitudes, primarily the Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Siberia.

Identifying Weathering Processes

Weathering process in the tundra biome is heavily influenced by its cold climate. One such process is frost wedging or freeze-thaw, where water seeps into cracks, freezes, expands and then thaws, causing the cracks to widen and deepen. Another process unique to the Tundra is Frost Churning, a phenomenon where the freeze-thaw cycle causes stones and soil to be brought up to the surface.

Flora and Fauna in the Tundra

The harsh conditions of the tundra mean that only certain types of plants and animals can survive there. Common tundra plant species include mosses, lichens, sedges, and small shrubs. Animals found in these regions have adapted to the unique challenges they face. These include foxes, Arctic hares, reindeer, and various bird species like Snowy Owls and Falcons, among others.

Key concepts

Physical Weathering Processes

Physical weathering refers to the breaking down of rocks and minerals through physical forces without any chemical alteration. In the tundra biome, these processes are strongly influenced by the cold climate. The unique environmental conditions mean that more typical elemental factors like temperature fluctuations play a crucial role.

In more detail, physical weathering in this biome occurs predominantly through the expansion and contraction of materials due to temperature changes. This consistent cycle of freezing and thawing creates a formidable and relentless force over time. Such weathering processes are invaluable as they shape the landscape and influence the soil composition in the tundra.

Frost Wedging

Frost wedging, also known as freeze-thaw weathering, is an essential and dramatic process that takes place in the tundra. When water collects in the crevices or cracks of rocks and subsequently freezes, it significantly expands. This expansion exerts pressure on the surrounding rock material, causing it to fracture and break apart.

During thaw periods, the ice melts and retreats, leaving larger gaps. Repeated cycles lead to continuous splitting and eventual breaking of rocks.

• This process can significantly alter landscapes over time.
• Frost wedging is particularly active in regions with fluctuating day and night temperatures around freezing.
• Once rocks have broken down into smaller gravel and soil, they provide a base for tundra vegetation.

Frost Churning

Frost churning is another physical weathering event characteristic of the tundra biome. This process also arises because of the freeze-thaw cycles, but it involves the movement of soil and rock particles rather than just expansion.

Through frost churning, larger stones and rocks are lifted toward the surface when water in the ground expands as it freezes. This continual movement gives the tundra its unique patterned ground surface. The pulsing cycles of freezing and thawing naturally sort particles into various formations.

• These formations might be circles, stripes, or polygons depending on local conditions.
• Understanding frost churning helps explain some of the unique surface features visible in tundra landscapes.

Tundra Flora and Fauna

The flora and fauna in the tundra have evolved to survive and thrive despite the challenging conditions. Plant life is limited to robust and resilient species, including mosses, lichens, sedges, grasses, and small shrubs. These plants lay close to the ground and can often be found in dense clusters, maximizing their exposure to the intermittent sunlight.

Animal species in the tundra have adapted in various fascinating ways to cope with the cold. Many species develop thick fur or feathers for insulation. Some, like the Arctic fox and the Snowy Owl, have white fur or plumage, providing both warmth and camouflage in the snowy environment.

• Reindeer (caribou in North America) migrate over vast distances to find food.
• Others like the Arctic hare can change the color of their fur based on seasons.
• Many birds migrate to avoid the harsh winter months, returning during the brief but vibrant summer.

Such adaptations ensure that life continues to flourish even in these extreme habitats.