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The correct answer is option 1 - Hydration.
Hydration is the process in which minerals absorb water, causing them to expand and undergo changes. This process is commonly observed in minerals such as clay minerals and zeolites. When these minerals come into contact with water, they have the ability to absorb the water molecules into their crystal structure, leading to an increase in volume. This hydration process can cause significant changes in the physical and chemical properties of the minerals.
Option 2 - Oxidation is not the correct answer in this context. Oxidation refers to a chemical reaction in which a substance loses electrons, resulting in a change in its oxidation state. It does not involve the absorption of water.
Option 3 - Hydrolysis involves a chemical reaction in which a compound reacts with water to form new compounds. While hydrolysis can cause changes in mineral compositions, it is not specifically related to the absorption of water by minerals.
Option 4 - Carbonation refers to a reaction between minerals and carbon dioxide, forming carbonate minerals. It does not involve the direct absorption of water by minerals.
Therefore, the correct answer for the given question is option 1 - Hydration.