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Consider the following statements :
Statement-I :
Weathering results in mechanical disintegration and chemical decomposition of rocks.
Statement-II :
Weathering is controlled by geologic and geomorphic processes but is independent of climatic factors.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Explanation
Statement-I is correct. Weathering is defined as the mechanical disintegration and chemical decomposition of rocks through the actions of various elements of weather and climate. It is an in-situ or on-site process.
Statement-II is incorrect. Weathering is highly dependent on climatic factors. In fact, climate (specifically temperature and precipitation) is the most important factor in determining the rate and type of weathering. For instance, chemical weathering is most intense in hot and humid tropical climates, while physical weathering processes like frost wedging are dominant in cold climates. While geologic (rock structure) and geomorphic (topography) factors do influence weathering, climatic factors are fundamental drivers, making the statement that weathering is "independent" of them false.