Consider the two samples of sedimentary rock seen here. Predict which rock would be more likely to undergo physical weathering. Explain how and why.

Question

Responses

Sandstone is more likely to undergo physical weathering; has more obvious layers of sediments.
Sandstone is more likely to undergo physical weathering; has more obvious layers of sediments.

Shale is more likely to undergo physical weathering; it is fine-grained and is more likely to dissolve in water.
Shale is more likely to undergo physical weathering; it is fine-grained and is more likely to dissolve in water.

Sandstone is more likely to undergo physical weathering; it is made of large sand-like grains and is easily eroded by wind.
Sandstone is more likely to undergo physical weathering; it is made of large sand-like grains and is easily eroded by wind.

Shale is more likely to undergo physical weathering; it contains iron which is an element that easily combines with oxygen in the atmosphere to produce rust.
Shale is more likely to undergo physical weathering; it contains iron which is an element that easily combines with oxygen in the atmosphere to produce rust.

Answer 1

Sandstone is more likely to undergo physical weathering because it is made of large sand-like grains that are easily eroded by wind, water, and ice. The grains in sandstone are not as tightly packed together as the fine grains in shale, making it more susceptible to being broken down. Additionally, sandstone often has visible layers of sediments, which can act as weak points for weathering processes to occur. On the other hand, shale is more fine-grained and compact, making it less prone to physical weathering compared to sandstone.

Answer 2

is that correct

Answer 3

Yes, that is correct. Sandstone is typically more susceptible to physical weathering compared to shale due to its larger, more loosely packed grains that are easily eroded by wind, water, and ice. Additionally, the visible layers of sediments in sandstone provide weak points for weathering processes to occur. On the other hand, shale is more fine-grained and compact, making it less prone to physical weathering.