With reference to the process of weathering, consider the following statements: 1. It involves the breaking up and decay of exposed rocks. 2. It is caused only by temperature changes and frost action. 3. It contributes to the formation of soil. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only. Explanation Weathering is the process of disintegration and decomposition of rocks and minerals on the Earth's surface. It is an in-situ or on-site process, meaning there is little or no movement of the materials. It acts as a precursor to erosion and is fundamental to the rock cycle and soil formation. Statement-wise Analysis - Statement 1 is Correct: Weathering is defined as the mechanical disintegration (breaking up) and chemical decomposition (decay) of rocks through the actions of various elements of weather and climate. It reduces massive rock structures into smaller fragments and sediments. - Statement 2 is Incorrect: Weathering is not caused only by temperature changes and frost action. It is classified into three main types based on the agents involved: - Physical (Mechanical) Weathering: Caused by temperature changes, frost action (freeze-thaw cycles), and pressure release. - Chemical Weathering: Caused by oxidation, carbonation, hydration, and solution. - Biological Weathering: Caused by the roots of plants, burrowing animals, and human activities. Since biological and chemical agents also play a significant role, the exclusivity in the statement renders it invalid. - Statement 3 is Correct: Weathering is the primary step in pedogenesis (soil formation). The weathering of bedrock (parent material) produces the mineral matrix (regolith) which, when combined with organic matter and subjected to time and biotic activity, evolves into soil. Key Takeaway Weathering encompasses physical, chemical, and biological processes that break down rocks in-situ. It is distinct from erosion (which involves transport) and is the essential initial stage in the formation of soil.

NCERT Class 8 Geography — Chapter 1: Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Resources

mcqmedium

With reference to the process of weathering, consider the following statements:

It involves the breaking up and decay of exposed rocks.
It is caused only by temperature changes and frost action.
It contributes to the formation of soil.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 and 2 only
B2 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.

Explanation

Weathering is the process of disintegration and decomposition of rocks and minerals on the Earth's surface. It is an in-situ or on-site process, meaning there is little or no movement of the materials. It acts as a precursor to erosion and is fundamental to the rock cycle and soil formation.

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Correct: Weathering is defined as the mechanical disintegration (breaking up) and chemical decomposition (decay) of rocks through the actions of various elements of weather and climate. It reduces massive rock structures into smaller fragments and sediments.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: Weathering is not caused only by temperature changes and frost action. It is classified into three main types based on the agents involved:
- Physical (Mechanical) Weathering: Caused by temperature changes, frost action (freeze-thaw cycles), and pressure release.
- Chemical Weathering: Caused by oxidation, carbonation, hydration, and solution.
- Biological Weathering: Caused by the roots of plants, burrowing animals, and human activities.
Since biological and chemical agents also play a significant role, the exclusivity in the statement renders it invalid.
Statement 3 is Correct: Weathering is the primary step in pedogenesis (soil formation). The weathering of bedrock (parent material) produces the mineral matrix (regolith) which, when combined with organic matter and subjected to time and biotic activity, evolves into soil.

Key Takeaway

Weathering encompasses physical, chemical, and biological processes that break down rocks in-situ. It is distinct from erosion (which involves transport) and is the essential initial stage in the formation of soil.

Your note

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Which of the following are cited as major threats to the environment resulting from the expansion of agriculture and construction activities? 1. Land degradation 2. Landslides 3. Soil erosion 4. Desertification Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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Consider the following methods for the conservation of land resources: 1. Deforestation 2. Land reclamation 3. Regulated use of chemical pesticides 4. Checks on overgrazing Which of the methods given above are to check land degradation?

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The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Correct: Weathering is defined as the mechanical disintegration (breaking up) and chemical decomposition (decay) of rocks through the actions of various elements of weather and climate. It reduces massive rock structures into smaller fragments and sediments.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: Weathering is not caused only by temperature changes and frost action. It is classified into three main types based on the agents involved:
- Physical (Mechanical) Weathering: Caused by temperature changes, frost action (freeze-thaw cycles), and pressure release.
- Chemical Weathering: Caused by oxidation, carbonation, hydration, and solution.
- Biological Weathering: Caused by the roots of plants, burrowing animals, and human activities.
Since biological and chemical agents also play a significant role, the exclusivity in the statement renders it invalid.
Statement 3 is Correct: Weathering is the primary step in pedogenesis (soil formation). The weathering of bedrock (parent material) produces the mineral matrix (regolith) which, when combined with organic matter and subjected to time and biotic activity, evolves into soil.