Exfoliation occurs because
A) water combines with minerals and increases their size, thereby causing surrounding minerals to expand.
B) water freezes in joints and expands.
C) overlying rock is removed, thereby allowing the underlying rock mass to expand and fracture.
D) evaporated water leaves behind previously dissolved mineral to form crystals, which accumulate and grow over time, exerting pressure on the rock.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Exfoliation occurs when overlying rock is removed, which releases the pressure on the underlying rock mass and causes it to expand and fracture. This process is often aided by factors such as temperature changes, mechanical weathering, and chemical weathering.

Exfoliation Occurs Because