Problem 3
Granite and basalt are exposed at Earth's surface in a hot, wet region. Will mechanical or chemical weathering predominate? Which rock will weather most rapidly? Why?
Problem 4
The level of carbon dioxide \(\left(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\right)\) in the atmosphere has been increasing for more than 150 years. Will this increase tend to accelerate or slow the rate of chemical weathering of Earth's surface rocks? Explain.
Problem 7
If a historic monument or building were particularly valuable to your community, how would you determine how rapidly the structure might deteriorate and whether it needed protection?
Problem 8
This satellite image shows sulfur dioxide \(\left(\mathrm{SO}_{2}\right)\) levels for air trapped in the lower atmosphere over eastern China on an October day in 2010 . Peak concentrations were 20 times the normal levels experienced in the United States. Such episodes are relatively frequent in this region. Discuss how such events might influence chemical weathering.
Problem 12
Explain this apparent contradiction: Lush tropical rain forests typically grow in infertile soils.
