Which of the following processes does not lead to the physical disintegration of rocks? The
Answer Details
The correct answer is "rapid cooling and solidification of rocks". When a liquid rock (magma) cools and solidifies, it undergoes a chemical change, but not a physical change. However, the other options mentioned in the question can lead to physical disintegration of rocks. Heating and cooling of rock surfaces, for example, can cause the outer layer of a rock to expand and contract, leading to the formation of cracks and fissures. Expansion and contraction of rock minerals due to temperature changes can also cause the rock to break apart. Similarly, the formation of cracks and crevices through the process of weathering and erosion can lead to the physical disintegration of rocks.