Final answer:
The water cycle speeds up weathering and erosion in the rock cycle, as water promotes the breakdown of rocks and the transport of sediments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The water cycle can accelerate the processes of weathering and erosion in the rock cycle. Weathering is the breakdown of rocks and erosion is the transportation of these broken rock particles. Together, they shape the Earth's surface and contribute to the rock cycle by forming sedimentary rocks through the deposition and cementing of these particles. Increased water movement can speed up both weathering and erosion, which in turn can increase the dissolution of minerals into water, benefiting ecosystems.
So, regarding the original question, the correct answer would be:
- A. Weathering and erosion
This is because both weathering and erosion are directly influenced by the activity of water within the water cycle.