Question

mechanical or chemical weathering
study each diagram below which shows causes of weathering. then answer the questions about each diagram.

1. figure c shows an example of __________ weathering. (chemical/mechanical)
2. the chemical make - up of the crust __________ changing. (is/is not)
3. figure d shows an example of __________ weathering. (chemical/mechanical)
4. the chemical make - up of the crust __________ changing. (is/is not)
5. figure e shows an example of __________ weathering. (chemical/mechanical)
6. the chemical make - up of the crust __________ changing. (is/is not)
7. figure f shows an example of __________ weathering. (chemical/mechanical)
8. the chemical make - up of the crust __________ changing. (is/is not)

Explanation:

• Mechanical weathering (also called physical weathering) is the process of breaking big rocks into little ones. This process usually happens near the surface of the planet. Temperature also affects the land. The cool nights and hot days always cause things to expand and contract. That movement can cause rocks to crack and break apart.
• Chemical weathering is the process by which rocks are decomposed, dissolved or loosened by chemical processes to form residual materials. Chemical weathering is always faster in warm wet climates and slower in cold dry climates.
• In Figure C, the roots of the tree are growing around the rock, which is a physical process of breaking the rock. So it is mechanical weathering. And in mechanical weathering, the chemical make - up of the crust is not changing.
• In Figure D, the roots of the tree are growing into the rock, which is a physical process. So it is mechanical weathering. And in mechanical weathering, the chemical make - up of the crust is not changing.
• In Figure E, the ice wedging (freeze - thaw cycle) is a physical process. So it is mechanical weathering. And in mechanical weathering, the chemical make - up of the crust is not changing.
• In Figure F, the temperature change (day - night cycle) causes the rock to expand and contract, which is a physical process. So it is mechanical weathering. And in mechanical weathering, the chemical make - up of the crust is not changing.

Answer:

1. mechanical
2. is not
3. mechanical
4. is not
5. mechanical
6. is not
7. mechanical
8. is not