resorbé

Resorbé is a term sometimes used in geology and soil science to describe a process of erosion or weathering where material is gradually removed or dissolved. It is particularly relevant when discussing the slow breakdown and removal of rock or soil components by natural agents like water, wind, or chemical reactions over extended periods. This process differs from rapid erosion, which involves sudden and significant removal of material, by its incremental nature.

The term can apply to various geological phenomena. For instance, in karst topography, the dissolution of soluble rocks like limestone by slightly acidic water is a form of resorbé. This slow dissolution can lead to the formation of caves, sinkholes, and other characteristic landforms. Similarly, the gradual removal of fine particles from soil by percolating water, a process known as leaching, can also be considered a type of resorbé. This can alter soil composition and fertility over time.

While not a universally standard geological term, "resorbé" effectively conveys the idea of gradual, pervasive removal or breakdown of material. It emphasizes the slow, ongoing nature of geological processes that contribute to landscape evolution and soil development. Understanding resorbé helps in comprehending how natural environments change and are shaped by persistent, albeit slow, forces.