Final answer:
As granite is carried by a river, it undergoes physical weathering and erosion. Physical weathering breaks down the rocks into smaller pieces, while erosion transports the sediment downstream.
Step-by-step explanation:
As the pieces of granite are carried by the river, they undergo two main changes: physical weathering and erosion. Physical weathering occurs when the granite rocks break down into smaller pieces due to the action of water, wind, and other natural forces. This can result in the formation of sediment, such as gravel, sand, and clay.
On the other hand, erosion refers to the process of transporting the sediment or eroded pieces of granite downstream. The river's flow carries the sediment, causing it to shift, settle, and potentially deposit in new areas. This deposition can contribute to the formation of new landforms, like flood plains and deltas.