Question

Freezing and thawing water can cause a rock to break down into smaller pieces. Which part of the rock cycle is this an example of?

Answer 1

Physical Weathering

This especially happens with granitic rocks as they were cooling, like at Yosemite National Park. Freeze-thaw: When water freezes, it expands. If moisture seeps into cracks before winter, it can then freeze, driving the rocks apart.