Problem 1
Imagine you are a geologist who was hired to study the geology of a small mountainous island in the tropics. When you arrive at the shore of the island to begin your study, you find that transportation to the island's interior will not be available until the next day. Rather than lose a day of investigation, how might you begin your study of the island's geology having access only to the beach?
Problem 2
Describe how plants promote mechanical and chemical weathering but inhibit erosion.
Problem 3
Granite and basalt are exposed at Earth's surface in a hot, wet region. Will mechanical weathering 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 a century. Do you think this increase tends to accelerate or slow down the rate of chemical weathering of Earth's surface rocks? Explain your conclusion.
Problem 5
When you studied Chapter \(3,\) you learned that feldspars are very common minerals in igneous rocks. When you learn about the common minerals that compose sedimentary rocks in Chapter 6 , you will find that feldspars are relatively rare. Applying what you have learned about chemical weathering, explain why this is true. Based on this explanation, what mineral might you expect to be common in sedimentary rocks that is not found in igneous rocks?
Problem 6
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 9
Explain this apparent contradiction: Lush tropical rainforests typically grow in infertile soils.
