what is chemical weathering

9 months ago 38
Nature

Chemical weathering is the process of decomposition of rocks due to chemical reactions occurring between the minerals in rocks. It involves the interaction of rock with mineral solutions to change the composition of rocks. This process is caused by rainwater reacting with the mineral grains in rocks to form new minerals and soluble salts. There are different types of chemical weathering, including acidification, oxidization, carbonation, hydrolysis, and weathering by living organisms. These chemical processes need water and occur more rapidly at higher temperatures, so warm, damp climates are best for chemical weathering