What is physical weathering? (1 point)
Responses
the transformation of rocks into some other type of materials
the transformation of rocks into some other type of materials
the movement of rock from one place to another
the movement of rock from one place to another
the building up of rock that has been brought from other places
the building up of rock that has been brought from other places
the breaking of rock into smaller pieces from nonchemical processes
the breaking of rock into smaller pieces from nonchemical processes
Is this correct? Why?
Yes, the breaking of rock into smaller pieces from nonchemical processes is the correct definition of physical weathering. Physical weathering, also known as mechanical weathering, refers to the process of breaking down rocks into smaller fragments without involving any chemical changes. This can occur due to various factors such as temperature changes, pressure, frost action, wind abrasion, water erosion, and biological activity.
The correct answer is "the breaking of rock into smaller pieces from nonchemical processes."
To understand physical weathering, we need to know that it refers to the process of breaking rocks into smaller pieces without involving any chemical changes. This typically occurs due to various physical forces acting on the rocks over time.
To determine the answer to this question, we can look at the different options and eliminate those that do not fit the definition of physical weathering.
- The first option states that physical weathering is "the transformation of rocks into some other type of materials." This is incorrect because physical weathering does not involve the transformation of rocks into different materials, but rather breaking them into smaller pieces while retaining their composition.
- The second option suggests that physical weathering is "the movement of rock from one place to another." This is incorrect because movement of rock from one place to another is known as erosion, not physical weathering. They are related processes, but erosion involves transportation, while physical weathering is focused on the breaking of rocks.
- The third option states that physical weathering is "the building up of rock that has been brought from other places." Again, this is incorrect because the building up of rocks brought from other places is a process known as deposition, not physical weathering.
- The fourth option correctly states that physical weathering is "the breaking of rock into smaller pieces from nonchemical processes." This definition fits the concept of physical weathering, as it involves the breakdown of rocks into smaller fragments due to physical forces like temperature changes, ice wedging, or the actions of plants and animals.
Therefore, the correct answer is "the breaking of rock into smaller pieces from nonchemical processes."