The peeling off of outer layers of rock due to temperature changes is called ___
A: abrasion
B: frost wedging
C: exfoliation
D: burrowing
C: exfoliation
The correct answer is C: exfoliation.
The correct answer is C: exfoliation.
To arrive at the correct answer, let's analyze the given options and their meanings:
A: Abrasion refers to the process of wearing something down by friction or rubbing. While it involves removing layers, it is usually caused by physical forces such as wind, water, or particles scraping against the surface.
B: Frost wedging is a process in which water seeps into cracks in rocks, freezes, and expands. This expansion can cause the rock to crack and break apart. However, it is not specifically related to the peeling off of outer layers of rock.
C: Exfoliation is the process by which the outer layers of rock weather and peel off due to various factors, including temperature changes. It occurs when the rock expands when heated and contracts when cooled, causing the outer layers to crack and detach.
D: Burrowing refers to the actions of organisms digging or tunneling through rock or soil. While burrowing can impact rocks by weakening them or creating passages, it is not directly related to the peeling off of outer layers of rock due to temperature changes.
Based on the explanations given, the process of peeling off outer layers of rock due to temperature changes is called exfoliation.