Difference Between Abrasion and Attrition

Abrasion vs Attrition

Abrasion and attrition are two different terms that is related to various sciences like geology and medicine. One can come across many differences between Abrasion and attrition.

In geological terms, Abrasion refers to the wearing or destruction of the surface of particulates like in the process of sediment transportation. On the other hand, attrition refers to the extensive reduction or winnowing of the entire particulates. While abrasion is restricted to superficial destruction, attrition is not limited to such destruction.
Abrasion occurs when one rock hit another surface. For example a rock or stone which is embedded in glacier are rubbed against the bedrock or side when the glacier moves from down the hill. Attrition can be termed as a form of river or coastal erosion where the surface is washed away. Attrition also occurs when a rock or stone breaks into smaller fragments when washed downstream.
When speaking of medical science, Abrasion is termed as wound caused by the superficial damage of the skin. In abrasion, the wound is not that deep and if there is bleeding, it is not that severe and only minimal. Abrasion wounds occur when the skin comes into moving contact with some rough surface, which leads to the rubbing away or grining of the upper layer of the epidermis. On the other hand, Attrition wounds are caused by rubbing or friction like grinding of the teeth.

There is also another meaning to attrition. Attrition also refers to a staff reduction in companies through usual process like resignation or retirement.

Summary

1. Abrasion is restricted to superficial destruction; attrition is not limited to such destruction.

2. Abrasion refers to the wearing or destruction of the surface of particulates like in the process of sediment transportation. On the other hand, attrition refers to the extensive reduction or winnowing of the entire particulates.

3. Abrasion wounds occur when the skin comes into moving contact with some rough surface, which leads to the rubbing away or grining of the upper layer of the epidermis. On the other hand, Attrition wounds are caused by rubbing or friction like grinding of the teeth.

4. Abrasion occurs when one rock hit another surface. Attrition can be termed as a form of river or coastal erosion where the surface is washed away. Attrition also occurs when a rock or stone breaks into smaller fragments when washed downstream.

5. Attrition also refers to a staff reduction in companies through usual process like resignation or retirement.