Regolith is a layer of loose, heterogeneous material covering solid
rock. This layer can be caused by
weathering and the results of
biological processes. The layer can appear on
Earth, as well as
asteroids and other
planets. On Earth, it is one of the important factors for most
life, since few
plants can grow on or within solid rock, and
animals would be unable to burrow or build shelter with a loose material.