Final answer:
Weathering is the process that breaks down rocks and minerals to form soil and sediment, while erosion involves the transport and removal of these materials from one location to another. The correct option is (d).
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between weathering and erosion is a key concept in understanding geological processes. Weathering refers to the breakdown or decomposition of rocks and minerals at the Earth's surface through a combination of mechanical, chemical, and biological processes. This leads to the formation of soil and sediment. On the other hand, erosion is the process that involves the transporting of weathered fragments, usually by agents like water, wind, ice, or gravity. This action results in the removal of sediments and soil from one place to another, reshaping the landscape.
As such, the correct answer to the student's question is b) Weathering refers to the breakdown of the rock; erosion refers to the removal of the rock from its landscape. Weathering happens all over the world, not just in the tropics, and erosion is not restricted to temperate environments but can occur in a variety of climatic conditions.