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GCE Agricultural Science 1990 Question 7

Question 7

Rocks and Soil Formation

The equation KAlSi3O8 + H2O → HAlSi3O8 + K+ + OH− represents the process of chemical weathering called

  1. A.hydrolysis
  2. B.solution
  3. C.carbonation
  4. D.oxidation
  5. E.hydration.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (hydrolysis)

Explanation

Water splits into H+ and OH−; H+ replaces K+ in the feldspar. Reaction with water that breaks up the mineral is hydrolysis.