Final answer:
Rust through oxidation is a process that creates chemical weathering, as it involves the chemical transformation of minerals. Other options provided represent physical or mechanical weathering rather than chemical alterations.
Step-by-step explanation:
To address the student's question: Which of the following will create chemical weathering? The correct answer is C) Rust through oxidation. This describes a process where iron in rocks reacts with oxygen and water, resulting in the formation of rust. It is an example of chemical weathering, which involves the chemical transformation of rock-forming minerals. In contrast, options A), B), and D) describe physical or mechanical weathering, which involves physical changes such as breaking and displacing of rock rather than chemical alteration.
In the context provided by Exercise 7.2.1, choosing the option that represents a chemical reaction would also be rusting, that is, b. A bicycle rusting. Here, oxidation of the metal parts of the bicycle forms rust, similar to the process described in option C of the student's question.
The formation of clastic sedimentary rocks involves both mechanical and chemical weathering. Chemical weathering alters minerals like feldspar into clay, while mechanical weathering breaks down rocks into smaller pieces, such as sand grains predominately composed of quartz, due to its resistance to erosion.