select the correct answer. which of these actions is an example of chemical weathering? a. freezing water…

select the correct answer. which of these actions is an example of chemical weathering? a. freezing water widens the cracks in rocks. b. plant roots force their way into cracks in rocks and break them. c. oxygen in air reacts with iron content in rocks, causing them to change color. d. strong winds peel soft rock away, leaving harder rock behind.
Answer
Answer:
C. Oxygen in air reacts with iron content in rocks, causing them to change color.
Explanation:
Step1: Define chemical weathering
Chemical weathering involves chemical reactions that change the composition of rocks.
Step2: Analyze option A
Freezing - water widening cracks is physical weathering (frost - wedging), no chemical change.
Step3: Analyze option B
Plant roots breaking rocks is physical weathering (biological - physical), no chemical change.
Step4: Analyze option C
Oxygen reacting with iron in rocks is oxidation, a chemical reaction changing rock composition.
Step5: Analyze option D
Winds peeling rock is physical weathering (abrasion), no chemical change.