Question

Give a geographical reason for the following:

Chemical and biological weathering is negligible in polar climates.

Answer 1

Chemical and biological weathering is negligible in polar climates because the cold temperatures in these regions slow down the chemical reactions that are essential for chemical weathering. In addition, the scarcity of liquid water in polar regions limits the processes like oxidation, carbonation, and hydration, which are required for chemical weathering. Similarly, biological weathering is limited because of the lack of vegetation and the harsh environment, which makes it difficult for plants, animals, and microorganisms to thrive and contribute to the breakdown of rocks. Thus, due to cold conditions and limited biological activity, both chemical and biological weathering are minimal in polar climates.