How is chemical weathering different from physical weathering?

Question

Chemical weathering involves plants and animals, while physical weathering does not.

Chemical weathering forms new substances, while physical weathering does not.

O Chemical weathering results in the breakdown of rock, while physical weathering does not.

Chemical weathering requires a reaction with water, while physical weathering does not.

Answer 1

The key differences between chemical weathering and physical weathering can be summarized as follows:

1. Formation of New Substances: Chemical weathering involves chemical reactions that lead to the transformation of minerals and the formation of new substances (e.g., the alteration of feldspar to clay). In contrast, physical weathering involves the mechanical breakdown of rocks without changing their chemical composition.

2. Involvement of Water and Reactions: Chemical weathering often requires the presence of water and may involve various chemical processes, such as hydrolysis, oxidation, or carbonation. Physical weathering, however, does not necessarily involve chemical reactions or water. Instead, it includes processes like freeze-thaw cycles, abrasion, and exfoliation that physically break rocks into smaller pieces.

Thus, the most accurate statement from your options is: Chemical weathering forms new substances, while physical weathering does not.