How can moving water contribute to physical weathering?(1 point)

Responses

It can make rocks expand and contract.
It can make rocks expand and contract.

It can transport rocks to different locations.
It can transport rocks to different locations.

It can cause the formation of new minerals in rocks.
It can cause the formation of new minerals in rocks.

It can cause rocks to bump against each other.
It can cause rocks to bump against each other.

1 answer

All of the above responses are correct. Moving water can contribute to physical weathering in several ways.

1. It can make rocks expand and contract: When water enters cracks or pores in rocks and then freezes, it expands. The expansion of freezing water can put pressure on the rock, causing it to crack or fracture.

2. It can transport rocks to different locations: Moving water, such as flowing rivers or ocean waves, can pick up and carry rocks or sediments. As the rocks are transported, they can collide with other rocks or stream beds, causing them to break into smaller pieces.

3. It can cause the formation of new minerals in rocks: The flow of water can dissolve minerals from rocks and carry them away. When the water evaporates or flows into another location, these dissolved minerals can crystallize and form new minerals, which can further contribute to the physical weathering of rocks.

4. It can cause rocks to bump against each other: Water movement can cause rocks to collide with each other, leading to abrasion and wearing away of the rock surfaces. This can result in the disintegration of the rocks into smaller fragments.