Final answer:
The common product of chemical weathering is clay, which forms through processes like the hydrolysis of minerals such as feldspar. Clay contributes to soil formation and is integral to many soil properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
The common product of chemical weathering mentioned in the question is clay. Chemical weathering involves the breakdown of rocks and minerals through chemical reactions, often including the hydration, hydrolysis, oxidation, and carbonation of minerals. For instance, feldspars weather to form clay minerals through hydrolysis, where water reacts with the minerals to form new clay minerals and soluble products. Clay is a significant component of soil, with the fine particles providing plasticity and cohesiveness. Over time, weathering contributes to soil formation, influencing soil horizons and leading to the development of various types of soil, such as those containing clay, silt, and organic matter, which are critical for supporting plant life.
There are several other minerals listed, such as plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene, olivine, and diamond, but these are primary minerals found in rocks like granite or basalt and are less commonly the direct products of chemical weathering compared to clay. In soil profiles, clay is typically found within the subsoil horizon and results from the weathering of minerals like feldspar over extended periods. The presence of clay is also crucial for the nutrient retention and water-holding capacity of soils.