Final answer:
Onion weathering, also known as exfoliation, is named for its resemblance to the peeling of an onion's layers, which occurs when rocks split into sheets due to temperature-induced expansion and contraction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term onion weathering, also known as exfoliation, is used to describe a type of physical weathering of rock that resembles the peeling of an onion's layers. This occurs as a result of the expansion and contraction of rock due to temperature changes, which can lead to the rock peeling off in sheets. The correct answer to why exfoliation is called onion weathering is A. Because it involves the peeling of rock layers like an onion.