Problem 2
Outcrops of granite are examined in Alaska. They are all at similar elevations. Some are located in the dry interior of the state, others are located along the Pacific coast. The granites have identical compositions and textures. On the basis of the following information, which granite outcrop would weather most rapidly? Explain your choice. a) Outcrop A; located at coast, contains fractures spaced 1 meter ( 3 feet) apart b) Outcrop B; located at coast, does not have fractures c) Outcrop \(C\); located in interior, contains fractures spaced 1 meter ( 3 feet) apart d) Outcrop D; located in interior, does not have fractures
Problem 7
If you were to analyze the sand on a typical beach along the Atlantic coast, you would find that most of the sand grains are composed of the mineral quartz. In contrast, if you analyzed sand on some beaches in Hawaii, you might find that the dominant grains contain minerals such as pyroxene or olivine. Quartz, pyroxene, and olivine are all silicate minerals. Use weathering processes to explain why the compositions of these beaches differ.
Problem 9
Describe an everyday example of microscopic or macroscopic biological weathering.
Problem 11
Write a paragraph that argues for or against the following statement: Biological weathering processes could be considered examples of physical or chemical weathering.
Problem 14
During a study of weathering, a scientist examines two tombstones marking graves in separate cemeteries. The inscription on one tombstone is almost unreadable, whereas the inscription on the other is sharp and clear. Provide three potential explanations for the differences in the present state of the inscriptions.
Problem 17
How is the thickness of soil in a region related to weathering? a) Weathering breaks down materials near Earth's surface and therefore reduces the thickness of soil. b) Weathering increases the thickness of soil because it provides more materials to be incorporated into the soil. c) Soil thickness is dependent on the character of the regolith and therefore is not related to weathering.
Problem 19
A system is defined as a group of independent but interrelated components comprising a unified whole. Support the following statement: Soil is an example of \(a\) system, and soil type is controlled by the balance of inputs to and outputs from the system.
Problem 22
Complete the following Venn diagram to compare and contrast the factors that affect soil erosion due to water and wind. Identify characteristics that are shared by both systems (for example, characteristic 1) or are different for each group (for example, characteristic 2). Place the numbers in the most suitable locations on the diagram. Two have been inserted for you as examples.
