How can temperature lead to weathering of rocks? (1 point)
Responses
Rocks can melt when they become hot, which can lead to pieces breaking off.
Rocks can melt when they become hot, which can lead to pieces breaking off.
Rocks move faster when they are heated, which can cause the pieces to eventually move away.
Rocks move faster when they are heated, which can cause the pieces to eventually move away.
Rocks expand and contract when they are heated and cooled which cause them to break.
Rocks expand and contract when they are heated and cooled which cause them to break.
Rocks become ice when they get cold, which can later melt and wash awa
Rocks expand and contract when they are heated and cooled which cause them to break.
y small pieces of the rock.
Rocks become ice when they get cold, which can later melt and wash away small pieces of the rock.
Rocks expand and contract when they are exposed to temperature changes, which can lead to weathering. Here's how it works:
1. Thermal Expansion: When rocks are heated, they expand due to the increase in temperature. This expansion causes the bonds between the mineral grains in the rock to weaken or break.
2. Contraction: Conversely, when rocks are cooled, they contract due to a decrease in temperature. This contraction can cause stress within the rock, leading to cracks and fractures.
3. Repeated Expansion and Contraction: Daily and seasonal temperature fluctuations can subject rocks to continuous expansion and contraction cycles. Over time, this repeated stress weakens the structure of the rock, making it more susceptible to weathering.
4. Freeze-Thaw Weathering: In cold regions, the expansion of water as it freezes can also contribute to rock weathering. When water enters cracks and pores in the rock, it can freeze and expand, exerting pressure on the surrounding rock material. This pressure can cause the rock to break apart, leading to fragmentation and disintegration.
Ultimately, temperature changes play a significant role in weathering by causing rocks to expand, contract, and potentially crack or fracture. These processes gradually break down rocks into smaller pieces, contributing to the overall weathering of the Earth's surface.