GENERAL GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Weathering is defined as a process of decay, disintegration and decomposition of rocks under the influence of certain physical and chemical agencies.

Detailed explanation-2: -Mechanical Weathering Mechanical weathering, also called physical weathering and disaggregation, causes rocks to crumble. Water, in either liquid or solid form, is often a key agent of mechanical weathering. For instance, liquid water can seep into cracks and crevices in rock.

Detailed explanation-3: -Disintegration involves the breakdown of rock into its constituent minerals or particles with no decay of any rock-forming minerals.

Detailed explanation-4: -Physical weathering occurs when physical processes affect the rock, such as changes in temperature or when the rock is exposed to the effects of wind, rain and waves. Water can get into cracks in a rock and, if it freezes, the ice will expand and push the cracks apart.

Detailed explanation-5: -Physical weathering is known as mechanical weathering, where rocks breakdown into smaller pieces by mechanical means. Agents of mechanical weathering include ice, wind, water, gravity, plants, and even, yes, animals [us]!