Here's a breakdown:
Chemical weathering involves the alteration of the chemical composition of rocks. This happens through reactions with water, acids, oxygen, or other substances. Here are some examples:
* Hydrolysis: Water reacts with minerals in rocks, breaking them down.
* Oxidation: Oxygen reacts with minerals, often forming oxides like rust.
* Carbonation: Carbon dioxide dissolved in water forms carbonic acid, which can dissolve certain minerals.
Physical weathering involves the mechanical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces. While temperature changes can contribute to this, it's not the sole cause. Other factors include:
* Frost wedging: Water freezes in cracks and expands, breaking the rock.
* Abrasion: Rocks rub against each other, wearing them down.
* Root wedging: Plant roots grow in cracks and break the rock.
In summary:
* Chemical weathering: Changes the chemical composition of rocks due to reactions. Temperature changes are not a primary cause.
* Physical weathering: Breaks rocks into smaller pieces through mechanical forces. Temperature changes can play a role, but are not the only factor.
