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  • Ocean Waves and Weathering: Physical vs. Chemical Breakdown
    Ocean waves are a form of physical weathering.

    Here's why:

    * Physical weathering is the breakdown of rocks and minerals through mechanical processes. This includes:

    * Abrasion: The grinding and scraping of rocks against each other.

    * Impact: The force of waves crashing against the shore.

    * Freezing and thawing: Water expands when it freezes, putting pressure on rocks and causing them to break apart.

    * Ocean waves cause physical weathering through:

    * Abrasion: Waves carry sand and pebbles that rub against rocks, gradually wearing them down.

    * Impact: The force of waves crashing against cliffs and shorelines can break off chunks of rock.

    * Chemical weathering involves the breakdown of rocks through chemical reactions. This includes processes like oxidation, dissolution, and hydrolysis. While ocean water can play a role in chemical weathering (e.g., dissolving certain minerals), the primary action of waves is physical.

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