Which of the following does not physically loosen rocks on the surface?
A)Water contracting as it freezes
B)Crystals of salt and other minerals that exert an outward force on fractures
C)Roots that pry apart fractures as the root grows in size
D)Joints that form when rock pressures are released
E)Rodents and other burrowing organisms

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Water expands rather than contracts when it freezes, which contributes to the physical loosening of rocks by creating pressure within cracks and fractures. This process is known as frost wedging.

Which of the Following Does Not Physically Loosen Rocks on the Surface