Question

Describe the work of plants as agents of weathering.

Answer 1

Plants protrude their roots through joints in the rocks and as the plant grows, the joints in the rocks get widened. The widening of joints allows water to seep through. Seepage of water may cause chemical weathering or frost action. Decay of plant remains like flowers, leaves, etc., result in the formation of organic acids which may react with minerals present in the rocks. The leads to chemical weathering.