Question - Explain how the existence of mountains can lead to changes in the composition of the atmosphere.

Explain how the existence of mountains can lead to changes in the composition of the atmosphere.

ANSWER:

The key process is through weathering of rocks. Formations of mountains leads to increased rates of erosion and that enhances the rate of chemical weathering. The most important chemical weathering process—hydrolysis of silicate minerals—consumes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Volcanoes are mountains and volcanic eruptions add water and carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.  Mountains influence vegetation patterns and vegetation consumes carbon dioxide.