Question

a student is conducting an experiment to observe how different climates affect the rate of rock weathering. she collects samples from three different locations: a dry, arid region, a temperate region, and a tropical rainforest near the equator. after several weeks of exposure to the elements, she notices significant differences in the weathering of the rocks. based on her observations, which of the following best describes the rate of weathering of rocks near the equator?
○ rocks near the equator weather more slowly due to the consistent temperature and lack of moisture.
○ rocks near the equator weather rapidly because of high temperatures and frequent rainfall, which enhance chemical weathering.
○ rocks near the equator remain mostly unchanged because the climate has little impact on the weathering process.
○ rocks near the equator experience physical weathering only, due to the intense sunlight and dry conditions.

Explanation:

Weathering is the breakdown of rocks. Chemical weathering is enhanced by high temperatures and frequent rainfall. Near the equator (where there is a tropical rainforest), there are high temperatures and frequent rainfall. So rocks near the equator weather rapidly because of these factors that enhance chemical weathering.

Answer:

Rocks near the equator weather rapidly because of high temperatures and frequent rainfall, which enhance chemical weathering.