The layer of quartzite in this photograph would mostly weather by
A)dissolution.
B)hydrolysis.
C)physical weathering.
D)spontaneous combustion.

Question

The layer of quartzite in this photograph would mostly weather by 
A)dissolution. 
B)hydrolysis. 
C)physical weathering. 
D)spontaneous combustion.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The layer of quartzite would mostly weather by physical weathering, which breaks down rocks through mechanical processes, such as freezing and thawing, wind abrasion, and root wedging. Quartzite is a very hard rock composed mainly of the mineral quartz, which is resistant to chemical weathering like dissolution and hydrolysis. Spontaneous combustion is not a likely process for weathering rocks.

The Layer of Quartzite in This Photograph Would Mostly Weather