Question

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o a type of weathering in which rocks and minerals break down into smaller pieces
o a type of weathering in which rocks and minerals undergo changes in their composition
o a type of weathering in which rocks and minerals compact and cement together

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze the types of weathering:

1. Mechanical Weathering: Breaks rocks into smaller pieces (physical breakdown, no composition change).
2. Chemical Weathering: Changes rock/mineral composition (e.g., oxidation, dissolution).
3. Compaction/Cementation: Part of sedimentary rock formation (lithification), not weathering.

The option "a type of weathering in which rocks and minerals undergo changes in their composition" describes chemical weathering, which matches the definition of chemical weathering (altering mineral structure/composition). The "break down into smaller pieces" is mechanical weathering, and "compact and cement" is not weathering.

Answer:

The correct option is: "a type of weathering in which rocks and minerals undergo changes in their composition" (the middle option).