Weathering Name the type of weathering most associated with the formation of the landscape shown above and explain this type of weathering. - Junior Cycle Geography - Question A - 2013

Mechanical weathering, also known as physical weathering, occurs when rocks are broken down into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. This process can result from various physical forces, such as:

1. Temperature Changes: Variations in temperature can cause rocks to expand when heated and contract when cooled. This repeated process can create stress in the material, leading to cracks. This is particularly evident in areas where there are extreme temperature fluctuations.

2. Frost Wedging: In climates where temperatures drop below freezing, water can seep into cracks in rocks. When this water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the surrounding rock. When it thaws, the water contracts, and the cycle repeats, eventually leading to further breakdown of the rock.

Overall, mechanical weathering is significant in shaping landscapes, particularly in rocky terrains like the one depicted in the image.