Explain how the texture of a rock surface affects how fast it physically weathers by water.(4 points)In 3–5 sentences,

Answer 1

the texture of a rock surface affects how fast it physically weathers by water in the following ways:

1. Surface roughness: A rough rock surface provides more surface area for water to come in contact with, allowing for greater physical weathering. This is because water can penetrate deeper into the crevices and cracks, causing the rock to break apart more easily.

2. Porosity: If a rock is highly porous, meaning it has many small holes or spaces, it will absorb water more readily. This can lead to an increased rate of physical weathering as the water infiltrates the rock and causes it to expand and contract, leading to cracks and fractures.

3. Composition: The composition of a rock, including the type of minerals present, can influence how fast it weathers. Some minerals are more susceptible to physical weathering by water than others. For example, rocks containing minerals such as feldspar and quartz are more resistant to water erosion compared to rocks containing calcite.

4. Permeability: The permeability of a rock refers to its ability to allow water to pass through it. Rocks with high permeability, such as sandstone, allow water to flow more easily through their pores, increasing the potential for physical weathering by water.