Which is an example of physical weathering?

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Multiple Choice

Which is an example of physical weathering?

Explanation:
Physical weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces without changing the minerals themselves. Ice wedging fits this idea: water enters cracks, freezes, and expands, pushing the rock apart over repeated cycles. No chemical change occurs to the minerals, just physical breakup into smaller fragments. The other processes involve chemical changes: acid dissolution dissolves minerals and alters composition; oxidation involves a reaction with oxygen forming new compounds like rust; hydration changes minerals by absorbing water and altering their structure. Hydration can contribute to weakening, but it still represents chemical alteration rather than purely mechanical breakage.

Physical weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces without changing the minerals themselves. Ice wedging fits this idea: water enters cracks, freezes, and expands, pushing the rock apart over repeated cycles. No chemical change occurs to the minerals, just physical breakup into smaller fragments. The other processes involve chemical changes: acid dissolution dissolves minerals and alters composition; oxidation involves a reaction with oxygen forming new compounds like rust; hydration changes minerals by absorbing water and altering their structure. Hydration can contribute to weakening, but it still represents chemical alteration rather than purely mechanical breakage.

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