Which answer correctly orders the following step in explaining how ice breaks apart a rock? 1. Water seeps into the crack of a rock. 2. The water expands, cracking the rock. The crack expands many times, and the rock breaks apart.

You might be surprised to learn that the process of ice breaking apart rocks, known as freeze-thaw weathering, has been shaping our landscapes for millennia! When temperatures drop, water that has seeped into tiny cracks freezes and expands, exerting pressure on the surrounding rock. Over time, this relentless freezing and thawing can lead to significant fractures and even the eventual shattering of the rock itself. Next time you hike through rocky terrains, take a moment to appreciate this natural phenomenon! This process doesn't just start and stop with one freeze-thaw cycle; it can be repeated many times, leading to spectacular rock formations and contributing to soil development. It’s nature’s way of recycling!