2026 · Q70
Consider the following statements about Mechanical Weathering :
- 1More compact and highly consolidated rocks are least affected by freeze-thaw weathering.
- 2Shattering of rocks is more common in hot deserts.
- 3Crystalline rocks are often prone to exfoliation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
General KnowledgeGeography
- A1 and 2 only
- B1 only
- C1, 2 and 3
- D2 and 3 only
Explanation
Compact, highly consolidated rocks have little pore space, admit less water, and are therefore least affected by frost wedging, which needs water-filled cracks (statement 1 true). In hot deserts, repeated thermal expansion and contraction shatter rocks into blocks (statement 2 true). Crystalline rocks such as granite are classically prone to exfoliation, or onion-skin weathering (statement 3 true). All three are standard textbook statements, so 1, 2, and 3 are correct. Note: key disputed — independent verification inconclusive. UPSC's published final key marks option D (2 and 3 only).