Question

the diagram shows how earth’s materials near point 1 cycle to form new rock at point 4. which statement best describes the processes that are occurring between points 1 and 2? erosion and deposition are occurring, driven by energy from the sun. weathering and deposition are occurring, driven by energy from the sun. weathering, erosion, and deposition are occurring, driven by energy from the sun. weathering and erosion are occurring, driven by energy from the sun.

Explanation:

1. Analyze the processes between points 1 (mountain top with rain) and 2 (lower layer, likely a transport or early deposition stage but before final deposition).

• Weathering: Rain (from solar - driven water cycle) causes physical/chemical breakdown of rocks at point 1.
• Erosion: The broken - down materials are then moved (eroded) by water (driven by solar energy for the water cycle).
• Deposition typically occurs when the eroded materials settle, which is more likely at a later stage (not between 1 and 2 as the materials are still in transit or being broken down and moved).
• So between 1 and 2, weathering (breakdown) and erosion (movement) are happening, driven by solar energy (for the water cycle that provides the rain for weathering and the force for erosion).
• The first option is wrong as deposition is not occurring here. The second option is wrong as deposition is not occurring. The third option is wrong as deposition is not occurring. The fourth option correctly identifies weathering and erosion, driven by solar energy.

Answer:

D. Weathering and erosion are occurring, driven by energy from the Sun. (assuming the options are labeled A - D in order, with the last option being D)