Answer :
Final answer:
Limestone weathers faster than granite because it can dissolve in weak acids present in rainwater, a process driven by its calcite composition. In contrast, granite remains durable due to its tightly locked mineral structure that resists dissolution. Thus, the correct answer is that limestone can be dissolved by weak acids in rain.
Explanation:
Understanding Weathering Rates of Limestone and Granite
Limestone weathers faster than granite due to several key factors related to their chemical composition and structural integrity. The correct answer to the question is:
C) limestone can be dissolved by weak acids in rain
This phenomenon occurs because limestone is primarily composed of calcite, a mineral that is highly soluble in acidic conditions, including weak acids found in rainwater. Consequently, when rainwater, which can contain dissolved carbon dioxide forming carbonic acid, permeates limestone, it leads to accelerated weathering through dissolution.
On the other hand, granite is an igneous rock primarily made up of minerals like quartz and feldspar, which do not dissolve easily in water or weak acids. This resistance to chemical weathering is due to the tightly interlocking mineral grains in granite, which makes it more durable against erosive forces.
In summary, while both rocks can be subject to weathering, limestone's composition allows it to dissolve more readily in acidic conditions, leading to faster weathering compared to the more resistant granite.
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