How does the ice lead to physical weathering of rock
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How does the ice lead to physical weathering of rock
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Explanation:
Ice can lead to physical weathering of rock through a process
1. Water Seepage: Water can enter cracks and crevices in rocks, especially during periods of rainfall or snowmelt.
2. Freezing: When temperatures drop, the water trapped in these cracks freezes. As water freezes, it expands, which exerts tremendous pressure on the surrounding rock.
3. Mechanical Stress: The expansion of freezing water creates stress within the cracks of the rock. This stress can cause the cracks to widen and propagate further into the rock.
4. Thawing: When temperatures rise and the ice melts, the water contracts, and the pressure is released. This cycle of freezing and thawing, known as freeze-thaw cycles, can repeat numerous times, causing the rock to weaken and eventually break apart.
Over time, this process can fragment the rock into smaller pieces, contributing to its physical weathering. This is particularly common in regions with cold climates, where freeze-thaw cycles are prevalent.