The process by which rocks break down into smaller pieces is called weathering. This natural phenomenon can be classified into two main types: mechanical weathering and chemical weathering. Mechanical weathering involves the physical breakdown of rocks without altering their chemical composition, often due to factors like temperature changes or ice formation. Chemical weathering, on the other hand, involves chemical reactions that change the minerals in the rocks, often facilitated by water, acids, or gases. Together, these processes play a significant role in shaping landscapes and forming soil.