How can the freezing of water lead to the cracking of boulders?
A
Water expands upon freezing, exerting pressure on the boulders.
B
Water contracts upon freezing, pulling the boulders apart.
C
Water chemically reacts with the minerals in boulders, causing them to crack.
D
Water evaporates quickly when frozen, leading to cracks in boulders.
0 댓글
검증된 단계별 안내
1
Understand the physical properties of water: Water is one of the few substances that expands when it freezes. This is due to the formation of a crystalline structure that occupies more space than liquid water.
Consider the process of freezing: When water seeps into cracks in boulders and then freezes, it expands. This expansion can exert significant pressure on the surrounding rock.
Analyze the effect of expansion: The pressure from the expanding ice can cause the rock to crack or break apart. This process is known as frost wedging or freeze-thaw weathering.
Evaluate the incorrect options: Water contracting upon freezing is incorrect because water expands. Chemical reactions with minerals or rapid evaporation are not primary causes of cracking in this context.
Conclude with the correct explanation: The expansion of water upon freezing is the key factor that leads to the cracking of boulders, as it exerts pressure on the rock.