Clay minerals, silica (SiO2), and dissolved potassium bicarbonate in the soil water are products of which process?
A)chemical weathering of orthoclase feldspar
B)differential mechanical weathering of micas
C)chemical weathering of olivine and plagioclase feldspar
D)mechanical weathering of granite and rhyolite

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clay minerals, silica (SiO2), and dissolved potassium bicarbonate in the soil water are commonly produced by the chemical weathering of orthoclase feldspar, which is a common mineral in granite and other igneous rocks. Differential mechanical weathering of micas would produce smaller particles of mica, but not necessarily clay minerals or dissolved compounds. Chemical weathering of olivine and plagioclase feldspar would produce different products than orthoclase feldspar. Mechanical weathering of granite and rhyolite would not produce the chemical compounds listed.

Clay Minerals, Silica (SiO2), and Dissolved Potassium Bicarbonate in the Soil