Which one of the following processes leads to expansion of certain min

Which one of the following processes leads to expansion of certain minerals as they take up water, causing additional stress in the rock ?

Hydrolysis

Hydration

Oxidation

Carbonation

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This question was previously asked in

UPSC CDS-2 – 2022

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The correct answer is B) Hydration.

Hydration is a form of chemical weathering where water molecules are added to the molecular structure of a mineral. Some minerals, like gypsum, anhydrite, and certain clay minerals, absorb water and expand in volume as they are hydrated. This increase in volume creates stress within the rock, which can lead to disintegration and breakdown.

Hydrolysis involves the reaction of water with minerals, specifically where water splits into H+ and OH- ions that react with the mineral’s components (e.g., feldspar weathering into clay). Oxidation is the reaction of minerals with oxygen, often leading to the formation of rust (iron oxides). Carbonation is the reaction of carbonic acid (H₂CO₃), formed by CO₂ dissolving in water, with minerals, particularly carbonates like calcite. While all are chemical weathering processes, Hydration is the specific process leading to the expansion of minerals upon taking up water.

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