Mechanical weathering is also known as what?

• A. Chemical weathering
• B. Physical weathering
• C. Thermal weathering
• D. Biological weathering

Answer: (B)

Mechanical weathering is also referred to as physical weathering because it involves the physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. This process can occur through various natural mechanisms such as freeze-thaw cycles, where water enters cracks in rocks, freezes, and expands, ultimately causing the rock to fracture. Other examples include abrasion from wind or water and the pressure exerted during the expansion and contraction of rocks due to temperature changes.

The term "physical weathering" emphasizes that the changes occurring are purely mechanical, as opposed to chemical changes that can alter the minerals within the rocks. This distinction is important in geology as it helps categorize the different processes that contribute to the erosion and alteration of Earth's surface materials.