Question 3 (10 points) A geologist is studying some granitic boulders in a deser

Question

Question 3 (10 points) A geologist is studying some granitic boulders in a desert. He thinks that they have weathered in part as a result of thermal expansion and contraction. Which best describes the process of thermal expansion and contraction of these boulders? a) The granite has slowly contracted over millions of years as it has cooled Certain minerals near the boulder surface expand more during the day than other b) minerals do. c) The entire boulder expands during the day and contracts at night. d) The interior of the boulder expands faster than the surface, causing the surface to split.

Explanation / Answer

Answer - c. The entire boulder expands during the day and contracts at night.

Thermal expansion and thawing is a process of mechanical weathering in which the rock expands by being heated during the day time and contracts when the temperature falls. This causes disintegration of the rock.

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