Match each weathering or mass wasting process in Column A with its correct driving mechanism or characteristic environment in Column B.
- CarbonationChemical dissolution of carbonate rocks by rain containing weak carbonic acid in humid or karst regions
- Frost ShatteringMechanical disintegration resulting from repeated volume expansion of freezing water in rock joints in alpine zones
- SolifluctionSlow downslope flow of water-saturated soil over an impermeable frozen subsoil layer (permafrost) in cold climates
- RockfallRapid free-fall of detached, angular bedrock fragments down vertical cliff faces directly under gravity
Answer
Carbonation pairs with chemical dissolution of carbonate rocks; Frost Shattering pairs with mechanical disintegration from freeze-thaw cycles; Solifluction pairs with slow downslope flow of water-saturated soil over permafrost; Rockfall pairs with rapid free-fall of detached bedrock fragments down steep cliffs.
Each weathering and mass wasting process matches its unique mechanism: Carbonation is a chemical reaction involving carbonic acid and limestone; Frost Shattering is physical breakdown caused by expanding ice in joints; Solifluction is saturated regolith moving slowly over permafrost; and Rockfall is direct gravitational free-fall down steep cliffs.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Distinction between Mechanical Weathering, Chemical Weathering, and Mass Wasting Mechanisms