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  • Differential Weathering in Desert Environments: Causes & Explanation
    The answer is d. differential weathering. Here's why:

    * Differential weathering is the process where different rocks or parts of a rock weather at different rates due to variations in their composition, structure, or exposure. This is a prominent feature in deserts due to:

    * Extreme temperature swings: Rapid heating and cooling causes expansion and contraction, leading to stress and breakdown of rock.

    * Limited moisture: While infrequent, intense rainstorms can rapidly erode exposed surfaces, leaving more resistant parts intact.

    Let's look at the other options:

    * Spheroidal weathering: This refers to the rounding of angular rocks, often due to chemical weathering processes. It can occur in deserts, but isn't the most characteristic type.

    * Hydrolysis: This is a chemical weathering process involving the reaction of water with minerals, leading to their breakdown. While some hydrolysis can occur in deserts, it's less significant than other weathering processes.

    * Sedimentation: This is the process of depositing sediments, typically through erosion and transport. It's not a type of weathering itself, but a result of weathering and other processes.

    In summary: Differential weathering is the most prominent and characteristic type of weathering observed in desert environments.

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