Final answer:
The chemical process that converts carbon dioxide to carbonic acid, causing rock weathering, is called carbonation. This process leads to the breakdown of rocks and plays an important role in the carbon cycle and soil formation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The chemical process that involves the conversion of carbon dioxide into carbonic acid, leading to the chemical weathering of rocks, is known as carbonation. This process plays a significant role in the weathering of limestone and other carbon-rich rocks. Carbonation occurs when carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere dissolves in water, forming carbonic acid (H2CO3), as shown below:
- CO2 (atmospheric) ↔ CO2 (dissolved)
- CO2 (dissolved) + H2O ↔ H2CO3 (carbonic acid)
- H2CO3 ↔ H+ + HCO3- (bicarbonate ion)
- HCO3- ↔ H+ + CO32- (carbonate ion)
The formation of carbonic acid weakens the molecular bonds within the rocks and leads to their eventual breakdown. This is a crucial process within the carbon cycle and impacts soil formation by contributing to the formation of new soil horizons, making certain nutrients available for plant growth.