Which phrase best describes frost wedging
A: a type of physical weathering that occurs due to friction
B: a type of physical weathering that accounts due to temperature changes
C: a type of erosion that accounts due to friction
D: a type of erosion that occurs due to temperature changes
B: a type of physical weathering that occurs due to temperature changes
B: a type of physical weathering that occurs due to temperature changes
To determine the correct answer, let's break down the options and analyze them.
A: "A type of physical weathering that occurs due to friction." This option mentions physical weathering, which is the breakdown of rocks without changing their chemical composition. However, frost wedging does not occur due to friction, so option A is likely incorrect.
B: "A type of physical weathering that accounts due to temperature changes." Frost wedging is indeed a type of physical weathering, but it involves the expansion and contraction of water as it freezes and thaws, not just temperature changes alone. So, option B is not entirely correct.
C: "A type of erosion that accounts due to friction." Frost wedging does not involve erosion, which is the transportation of weathered materials. Therefore, option C is unlikely to be the correct answer.
D: "A type of erosion that occurs due to temperature changes." This option suggests that frost wedging is a type of erosion resulting from temperature changes. However, frost wedging is a form of physical weathering caused by the repeated freezing and thawing of water within cracks in rocks. This water expands as it freezes, exerting pressure on the surrounding rock, leading to fragmentation and eventually rock breakdown. Therefore, option D is also incorrect.
Based on the analysis, it appears that none of the provided options accurately describe frost wedging. Frost wedging is a specific type of physical weathering resulting from freezing and thawing of water within rocks, which leads to their fragmentation and disintegration.