laterization

[ lat-er-uh-zey-shuhn ]

noun

, Geology.

1. the weathering process by which rock is changed to laterite.

laterization

/ lăt′ə-rĭ-zā′shən /

1. The weathering process by which soils and rocks are depleted of soluble substances, such as silica-rich and alkaline components and enriched with insoluble substances, such as hydrated aluminum and iron oxides. Laterization is especially common in tropical regions that have a pronounced dry season and a water table that is close to the surface.