Salt wedging is most closely associated with ________.
A) chemical weathering
B) humid climates
C) freeze/thaw cycles
D) capillary action
E) plant roots

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Salt wedging occurs when saltwater creeps into cracks and pores in rocks or soil and then evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals. These crystals exert pressure on the surrounding material, which can cause it to break apart. This process is driven by capillary action, which is the ability of liquids to flow through narrow spaces due to adhesion and cohesion. Therefore, the best choice is D - capillary action. The other options (A - chemical weathering, B - humid climates, C - freeze/thaw cycles, and E - plant roots) are also associated with the weathering of rocks and other materials, but they are not directly linked to salt wedging.

Salt Wedging Is Most Closely Associated with ________