how can plants cause weathering?
A. plants need water and water can weather rocks
B. chemical reactions in plants change rocks and break them into smaller pieces
C. sprouting seeds and growing roots can cause rocks to break
D. plants attract animals, and animals can burrow into rocks
All of the options presented can contribute to weathering caused by plants, but the most direct and relevant answer is:
C. Sprouting seeds and growing roots can cause rocks to break.
Plants, especially those with strong and extensive root systems, can exert physical force on rocks as their roots grow and expand. This process, known as physical weathering or root wedging, can cause cracks and fractures in rocks. As the roots continue to grow, they can further widen these cracks, eventually breaking apart the rock into smaller pieces. This type of weathering is particularly common in rocky environments where plants have adapted to survive and thrive.