Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
When rocks are exposed to heat, they expand, which contributes to thermal stress. As the rocks absorb heat, their particles gain energy and move apart, causing the rock to expand. When the heat is removed or the temperature cools down, the rocks contract as they lose energy, causing them to shrink. These cycles of expansion and contraction due to temperature changes can create thermal stress within the rocks, potentially leading to cracking or fracturing over time. This process is known as thermal expansion and contraction, and it can be a significant factor in the weathering and breakdown of rocks in natural environments.