which is an example of physical weathering?
Acid rain, breaking down compounds in rock statues
Rock breaking apart when it falls from a cliff
Oxygen interacting with minerals in rock
Bits of iron and rock rusting, when exposed to oxygen and water
The example of physical weathering among the given options is "Rock breaking apart when it falls from a cliff."
Physical weathering refers to the breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. This process is primarily influenced by various factors such as temperature changes, water, wind, ice, and gravity. In the case of rock falling from a cliff, it undergoes physical weathering as the force of gravity causes the rock to break apart into smaller fragments upon impact with the ground or other objects.
To determine which of the options is an example of physical weathering, we need to understand the underlying process involved in each choice.
Acid rain, which is the result of pollutants in the air combining with water vapor, is an example of chemical weathering. It occurs when the acidic rainwater reacts with the compounds in rock statues, gradually dissolving and breaking them down chemically over time.
Oxygen interacting with minerals in rock is a process known as oxidation, which is more commonly associated with chemical weathering. It takes place when oxygen reacts with certain minerals in rocks, causing them to chemically change or dissolve.
Bits of iron and rock rusting when exposed to oxygen and water is another example of chemical weathering. Rusting occurs when iron reacts with oxygen in the presence of moisture, resulting in the formation of iron oxide (rust).
Therefore, among the given options, the only example of physical weathering is "Rock breaking apart when it falls from a cliff."