Question

ess investigation — the ripple effect, student answer packet 2

1. other than the variables that could have been investigated in investigation c, describe one unique physical or chemical property of water that contributes to the weathering of rocks. then describe how this property changes the surface of one landscape region in new york state (found on page 4 of student directions).

Explanation:

1. Property Selection: Water's ability to freeze (physical property: freezing and expansion) is a key weathering agent. When water seeps into rock cracks and freezes, it expands by about 9%, exerting pressure that breaks rocks (physical weathering: frost wedging).
2. Landscape Application: In the Catskill Mountains (a landscape region in NY with sedimentary rocks like sandstone), frost wedging occurs. Repeated freezing-thawing cycles break rocks into smaller fragments, creating talus slopes, altering the mountain’s surface by forming scree (rock debris) and contributing to soil formation over time.

Answer:

One unique physical property of water that contributes to rock weathering is its expansion upon freezing (frost wedging). When water infiltrates cracks in rocks (e.g., in the Catskill Mountains of New York State) and freezes, it expands by ~9%, exerting pressure that widens cracks and breaks rocks into smaller fragments. Over time, this process creates talus slopes (rock debris) and modifies the mountain’s surface, promoting soil formation and reshaping the landscape through physical weathering.