Question

which process is defined as breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without changing the rocks compositions?
erosion
oxidation
chemical weathering
mechanical weathering

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Erosion involves moving rock fragments, not breaking them down in place.
• Oxidation is a type of chemical weathering that changes rock composition.
• Chemical weathering alters the chemical makeup of rocks.
• Mechanical weathering (also physical weathering) breaks rocks into smaller pieces (like through freezing - thawing, abrasion) without changing their chemical composition.

Answer:

D. mechanical weathering