What type of weathering involves the physical breakdown of rocks without chemical change?

The correct choice identifies physical weathering as the process that involves the physical breakdown of rocks without altering their chemical composition. This type of weathering can include various mechanisms such as freeze-thaw cycles, thermal expansion and contraction, abrasion from wind or water, and root expansion from plants.

During physical weathering, rocks can fracture, crumble, and become smaller pieces while maintaining their original mineral structure and chemical makeup. This is key because it differentiates physical weathering from chemical weathering, which does involve changes in the chemical structure of the materials.

By recognizing that physical weathering pertains solely to physical changes, one can better understand how these processes contribute to landscape formation and soil development without involving changes to the rock’s inherent chemistry. This distinction is fundamental when studying geological processes and earth sciences.