Answer:
Biological weathering is a combination of both physical and chemical weathering, as living organisms can contribute to both processes through their actions and the release of chemicals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Biological weathering is a type of weathering that involves the breakdown of rock and mineral materials by living organisms such as plants, animals, and microorganisms. This process is a combination of both physical and chemical weathering.
Physical weathering involves the breaking down of rock and mineral materials into smaller pieces without any change in their chemical composition. Biological weathering contributes to this process by the action of plant roots, burrowing animals, and the expansion of plant roots as they grow. The roots of plants and trees can grow into cracks and fissures in rocks, exerting pressure that can cause the rocks to break apart. Similarly, burrowing animals such as moles and groundhogs can loosen soil and rocks, contributing to physical weathering.
Chemical weathering, on the other hand, involves the breakdown of rock and mineral materials by chemical reactions with water, oxygen, and other substances. Biological weathering contributes to this process by the action of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. Microorganisms can release acids and other chemicals that can dissolve or break down minerals in rocks, contributing to chemical weathering.
Therefore, biological weathering is a combination of both physical and chemical weathering, as living organisms can contribute to both processes through their actions and the release of chemicals.