Which is a form of mechanical weathering? Select the three correct answers
1. Frost wedging
2. Root wedging
3. Abrasion
Which is the most important agent in the process of chemical weathering?
Water is the most important agent in the process of chemical weathering.
Mechanical weathering refers to the physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. The three correct answers for forms of mechanical weathering are:
1. Frost wedging: Water seeps into cracks and crevices in rocks. When the water freezes, it expands and exerts pressure on the surrounding rock, causing it to crack and break apart.
2. Abrasion: This occurs when rocks rub against each other or against a surface, wearing them down over time. Examples include the grinding action of moving ice, water, or wind-borne sediment on rocks.
3. Root wedging: Plant roots can grow in cracks and crevices of rocks. As the roots grow, they exert pressure and widen the cracks, eventually causing the rocks to break apart.