Weathering and Oxidation Concepts

Mr. Stano discusses weathering, focusing on physical and chemical processes. Physical weathering includes frost and root action, which increase surface area and weathering rates. Tombstones illustrate weathering over time. Chemical weathering involves oxidation, forming rust, and carbonation, which creates limestone caves and features like stalactites and stalagmites.

What is one of the main effects of frost action on rocks?

• It cracks the rock open.

• It compresses the rock.

• It changes the rock's color.

• It melts the rock.

Which of the following is an example of physical weathering?

• Rusting of iron

• Formation of stalactites

• Dissolution of limestone

• Cracking of rocks by plant roots

How does increasing the surface area of a rock affect its weathering rate?

• It has no effect on the weathering rate.

• It increases the weathering rate.

• It decreases the weathering rate.

• It makes the rock immune to weathering.

What is a visible sign of oxidation on metals?

• The metal becomes shiny.

• The metal shrinks in size.

• The metal turns red or rusts.

• The metal becomes transparent.

What causes the green color on the Statue of Liberty?

• Paint applied to the statue.

• Reflection of the sea.

• Oxidation of copper.

• Growth of algae.

What is the primary difference between physical and chemical weathering?

• Chemical weathering does not affect rocks.

• Chemical weathering changes the physical structure.

• Physical weathering changes the chemical composition.

• Physical weathering does not change the chemical composition.

What is carbonation in the context of chemical weathering?

• The dissolution of minerals by carbonic acid.

• The reaction of oxygen with minerals.

• The physical breaking of rocks by roots.

• The process of freezing and thawing.

What geological features are formed by carbonation in limestone?

• Limestone caves

• Glaciers

• Sand dunes

• Volcanoes

What are stalactites?

• Rock formations found in deserts.

• Rock formations growing from the ground.

• Rock formations hanging from the ceiling.

• Flat rock surfaces.

What is the effect of water on granite over a long period?

• It slowly breaks down the minerals in granite.

• It has no effect on granite.

• It quickly dissolves the granite.

• It polishes the granite.