Question

What are the similarities and differences between physical and chemical weathering? Make sure to address both what is the same and what is different.

a) Not applicable
b) Both involve the breakdown of rocks
c) Physical weathering involves a change in chemical composition
d) Chemical weathering only occurs on the Earth's surface

Answer 1

Physical and chemical weathering are two different processes that break down rocks. Physical weathering involves the breakdown of rocks without changing their chemical composition, while chemical weathering involves a change in the chemical composition of rocks. Examples of physical weathering include freeze-thaw cycles and abrasion, while examples of chemical weathering include dissolution and oxidation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Physical and chemical weathering are both processes that break down rocks, but they differ in how they occur and the changes they cause. Physical weathering involves the breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. Examples of physical weathering include freeze-thaw cycles, where water gets into rock cracks and expands when it freezes, and abrasion, where rocks are worn down by rubbing against each other. On the other hand, chemical weathering involves a change in the chemical composition of rocks caused by reactions with substances like water or acids. Some examples of chemical weathering include the dissolution of limestone by acidic rain and the oxidation of iron in rocks.