* Limestone: Composed primarily of calcite (calcium carbonate), limestone is highly susceptible to chemical weathering. It reacts with acidic rainwater (containing carbonic acid) and other weak acids, dissolving and forming caves and sinkholes.
* Quartz: Quartz (silicon dioxide) is highly resistant to chemical weathering. It's very hard and chemically inert, making it one of the most durable minerals.
* Marble: Marble is also primarily composed of calcite, just like limestone. Therefore, it is highly susceptible to chemical weathering, reacting similarly to limestone.
* Granite: Granite is a composite rock containing quartz, feldspar, and mica. While the quartz is resistant, feldspar and mica are more susceptible to chemical weathering. This means granite will weather more readily than quartz, but less readily than limestone or marble.
Therefore, the minerals least immune to chemical weathering are limestone and marble.
Key takeaways:
* Chemical weathering: The breakdown of rocks and minerals by chemical reactions.
* Acid rain: A major contributor to chemical weathering, especially affecting carbonate minerals.
* Mineral composition: A key factor in determining a mineral's resistance to chemical weathering.
