Chemical weathering is the breakdown of rocks and minerals through chemical reactions that alter their composition. It occurs when minerals react with water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other substances in the environment. The processes of chemical weathering include:
- Hydrolysis: This is a process in which water reacts with minerals in rocks, causing them to break down. The water molecules split apart the mineral molecules, creating new compounds such as clay minerals. This process is common in regions with high levels of rainfall and humidity.
- Oxidation: This is a process in which minerals react with oxygen in the air, causing them to break down and form new compounds. For example, iron in rocks can react with oxygen to form iron oxide (rust). This process is common in regions with high levels of oxygen in the air.
- Carbonation: This is a process in which carbon dioxide in the atmosphere dissolves in water to form carbonic acid. The carbonic acid then reacts with minerals in rocks, causing them to break down and form new compounds. This process is common in regions with high levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
