Which of the following represents the process of chemical weathering?
A
Thermal expansion and contraction
B
Mass exfoliation
C
Hydration and Hydrolysis
D
Frost action and crystal growth
Correct Answer: Hydration and Hydrolysis
Hydration and Hydrolysis represents the process of chemical weathering. In Hydration, Chemical combination of water molecules with a particular substance or mineral leading to a change in structure. In Hydrolysis, Most important process in chemical weathering. It is due to the dissociation of H2O into H+ and OH- ions which chemically combine with minerals and bring about changes, such as exchange, decomposition of crystalline structure and formation of new compounds. Water acts as a weak acid on silicate minerals.