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Why is water an effective agent of weathering of rocks?

1) when water freezes to ice, it expands and can expand fractures in rocks
2) the force of water striking against rock can break the rock
3) water is effective at dissolving ionically bonded minerals
4) water can transport particles of rock that can act as abrasives and wear down rock
5) all of the above

User Kakaja
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Water is an effective agent of weathering of rocks due to the expansion of ice, the force of water, the ability to dissolve minerals, and the transportation of rock particles.

Step-by-step explanation:

Water is an effective agent of weathering of rocks due to several reasons Expansion of Ice When water freezes to ice, it expands and can expand fractures in rocks, causing them to break apart.Force of Water The force of water striking against rock can also break the rock, especially when it is flowing rapidly or during floods.Dissolving Minerals Water is effective at dissolving ionically bonded minerals present in rocks, leading to their breakdown and weathering.Transportation of Rock Particles Water can transport particles of rock that act as abrasives and wear down other rocks, leading to their eventual weathering.In conclusion, all of the above reasons make water an effective agent of weathering of rocks.

User JohanC
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