Chemical weathering is the disintegration of a substance in the rock through a chemical reaction.
Carbonation occurs when water and a pollutant, such as sulphur dioxide creates a weak sulphuric acid. When it rains and the water comes into contact with limestone a chemical reaction happens. Calcium sulphate is produced as it takes the calcium carbonate from the limestone. It can then transfer the solution to another area until it evaporates. When it does so it leaves behind calcium information such as stalactites.
hydration occurs when minerals in a rock absorb water, causing it to expand. Mineral, such as anhydrite, expands and weakens it’s structure and leave the rock more exposed to erosion.
oxidation occurs some substances react to being exposed to water or air. Iron, when exposed, will turn from a silver color to a red or dark brown color known as iron oxide. It weakens the rock.
hydrolysis occurs when water bonds with a mineral in the rock. It is particularly strong at weathering feldspars in rock and can lead to the formation of Kaolin.
The traditional economic practice in Africa is primarily herding. Many African tribes and communities regard cattle as part and parcel of their lives and wealth. For example, the Maasai tribe found in Tanzania and Kenya have for centuries engaged in herding as their way of life, a tradition that is very much alive even today.
The Maasai are semi- nomads. They traverse the land with their cattle in search of pasture. They leave the women and the little ones behind in their Kraals as they travel considerable distances to look for pasture. They do not dwell in urban areas but in the open plains where their cattle are free to graze. However, they have taken their children to school and a new generation that is savvy of current times has emerged but still fiercely proud of their traditions and way of life.
