Question

Explain the role of frost in weathering. In which type of region is it most common?

Answer 1

Frost plays a role in physical weathering through a process called frost wedging. Water enters cracks and joints in rocks and freezes when the temperature drops below freezing. Upon freezing, water expands and exerts pressure on the rock, widening the cracks. Repeated freezing and thawing gradually break the rock into pieces.

Frost weathering is most common in cold regions where temperatures frequently fall below freezing, such as mountainous areas and regions with cold winters.