Which of the following statements describes the differnece between physical and chemical weathering?
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Physical weathering is a process that breaks down rocks or minerals into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. This can occur through processes such as freeze-thaw cycles, abrasion from wind or water, and plant root growth. On the other hand, chemical weathering involves the breakdown of rocks or minerals through chemical reactions, causing a change in their composition. This can occur due to processes like hydrolysis, oxidation, and carbonation. In summary, physical weathering primarily affects the size and shape of rock particles, while chemical weathering alters their composition.
To understand the difference between physical and chemical weathering, we need to define each term:
1. Physical weathering: This refers to the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without any change in their chemical composition. It occurs through mechanical forces such as abrasion, freezing and thawing, or even plant roots penetrating cracks in rocks.
2. Chemical weathering: This refers to the process of breaking down rocks and altering their chemical composition. It occurs when certain chemicals in water or air react with the minerals in rocks, causing them to dissolve or change into new substances. Examples include the dissolution of limestone by acidic rainwater or the oxidation of iron minerals in rocks.
Now, let's compare the statements to determine the difference between physical and chemical weathering:
A) Physical weathering is a process of changing the chemical composition of rocks.
B) Chemical weathering occurs only due to mechanical forces.
C) Physical weathering causes rocks to break down into smaller pieces.
D) Chemical weathering breaks down rocks without any change in their physical structure.
Statement C correctly describes physical weathering, as it involves the breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces. This can be caused by mechanical forces like wind, water, or temperature changes.
Statement D is incorrect. Chemical weathering, unlike physical weathering, does result in a change in the chemical composition or structure of rocks. This can occur due to chemical reactions between minerals and fluids like water or acids.
Therefore, the correct answer is that statement C describes the difference between physical and chemical weathering. Physical weathering involves the breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces, while chemical weathering involves the alteration of the chemical composition or structure of rocks.