How can moving water contribute to physical weathering?
A: it can make rocks expand and contract.
B: it can cause rocks to bump against each other
C: it can transport rocks to different locations.
D: it can cause the formation of new minerals in rocks.
All the listed choices can contribute to physical weathering. However, in the context of moving water's contribution to physical weathering specifically, B: it can cause rocks to bump against each other is the most direct and significant way in which moving water can contribute to physical weathering. The force of flowing water can cause particles of rock to collide with each other, resulting in the breaking apart of the rock and further weathering. The other options listed can also be secondary effects or outcomes of this primary mechanism.
The correct answers are:
B: Moving water can cause rocks to bump against each other, leading to physical weathering. The force of the water can cause rocks to collide and break apart into smaller pieces.
C: Moving water can also transport rocks to different locations. When water flows in rivers or streams, it can pick up rocks and carry them downstream, contributing to physical weathering as the rocks are eroded by the water's movement.
Therefore, the correct options are B and C.
The correct answer is B: It can cause rocks to bump against each other.
Moving water can contribute to physical weathering by causing rocks to bump against each other. When water flows over rocks, it exerts a force on them, causing them to impact and collide with each other. These repeated collisions can lead to the breakage and fragmentation of rocks, causing physical weathering.
To arrive at this answer, you can use your understanding of physical weathering and the effects of moving water on rocks. Physical weathering refers to the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without any change in their chemical composition. Moving water, such as in rivers, streams, or waves, can contribute to physical weathering by exerting a mechanical force on rocks, leading to their erosion and fragmentation.
By considering the given options, you can eliminate some choices. Option A suggests that moving water can make rocks expand and contract, which is not true. While water can cause rocks to get wet and subsequently dry, this alone does not contribute significantly to physical weathering. Option C states that moving water can transport rocks to different locations, which is true, but this refers to the process of erosion or transportation, rather than physical weathering. Option D suggests that moving water can cause the formation of new minerals in rocks, which is not accurate. While water can facilitate chemical weathering processes, mineral formation is typically associated with other factors.
Therefore, the most plausible answer is B, as the repeated collisions between rocks caused by moving water can indeed contribute to physical weathering.