how is chemical weathering different from physical weathering
Chemical weathering and physical weathering are two different processes that can occur in rocks and minerals.
Physical weathering, also known as mechanical weathering, refers to the physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. This can occur through various mechanisms such as frost wedging, thermal expansion and contraction, abrasion by wind and water, and the action of plant roots. Physical weathering breaks down rock into smaller fragments or individual minerals, but the chemical composition of the rocks remains the same.
Chemical weathering, on the other hand, involves the chemical alteration or decomposition of rocks and minerals. This process occurs when certain minerals react with substances in their environment, such as water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, acids, or other chemical compounds. Chemical weathering can result in the formation of new minerals or the dissolution of existing minerals, altering the overall chemical composition of the rocks. Some examples of chemical weathering processes include hydration, oxidation, carbonation, hydrolysis, and dissolution.
In summary, physical weathering refers to the mechanical breakdown of rocks without changing their chemical composition, while chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration or decomposition of rocks and minerals.