Which of the following statements with reference to Salt Weathering is/are correct ? 1. Salt crystallisation is the most effective of all the salt weathering processes. 2. Salt crystal growth is more effective over sedimentary rocks as compared to igneous rocks. Select the answer using the code given below :

Salt weathering, or haloclasty, is a mechanical weathering process where saline solutions seep into rock pores and evaporate, leaving behind crystals [1]. Salt crystallisation is widely regarded as the most effective and destructive of all salt weathering processes because the growth of crystals within confined spaces exerts significant expansive pressure, leading to granular disintegration [1]. Statement 2 is also correct because salt crystal growth is more effective in sedimentary rocks compared to igneous rocks. Sedimentary rocks, such as sandstone and calcarenite, are generally more porous and permeable, allowing saline solutions to penetrate deeper and accumulate in larger volumes [1]. In contrast, igneous rocks typically have lower porosity and fewer interconnected pores, which limits the space available for salt accumulation and subsequent crystal growth. This makes sedimentary rocks more susceptible to the mechanical stresses induced by salt crystallisation cycles [1].

Sources

1. [1] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 6: Geomorphic Movements > Salt Weathering > p. 85