Question

Name the four processes involved in chemical weathering.

Answer 1

The four processes involved in chemical weathering are:

1. Oxidation: The reaction of minerals, especially those containing iron, with oxygen in the air or water, leading to the formation of rust (iron oxide) and causing the rock to weaken and break down.

2. Carbonation: The reaction between carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and minerals like calcium carbonate in rocks (such as limestone), forming carbonic acid which dissolves the minerals.

3. Hydration: The absorption of water molecules into the mineral structure of rocks, leading to the expansion and weakening of the minerals, making the rock more prone to breakdown.

4. Solution: The process where minerals in the rock dissolve in water, particularly in the presence of acids. For example, limestone dissolves when exposed to carbonic acid in rainwater, causing the rock to break down completely.