Questions: Which term describes weathering? breaks down rock causes heating and cooling makes pebbles and rocks larger carries away fragments

The answer is the first one: breaks down rock.

Explanation for each option:

• Breaks down rock: This is the correct description of weathering. Weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller pieces by physical, chemical, or biological means.

• Causes heating and cooling: This option is incorrect. While temperature changes can contribute to physical weathering (e.g., freeze-thaw cycles), weathering itself is not defined as causing heating and cooling.

• Makes pebbles and rocks larger: This option is incorrect. Weathering does not make rocks larger; it breaks them down into smaller pieces.

• Carries away fragments: This option is incorrect. Carrying away fragments is a process known as erosion, not weathering. Weathering breaks down the rocks, while erosion transports the fragments.

In summary, weathering is the process that breaks down rock.