A few of the more common types of chemical weathering include:
Chemical weathering is indicated by the chemical transformation of
rocks into one or more new compounds. These new compounds are generally
softer, consist of smaller pieces (therefore more surface area), and are
more soluble than the original rock. Chemical weathering,
referred to as rock decomposition, often follows physical weathering
processes. The least chemically stable rocks are those formed
under high temperature and pressure conditions.
Solution refers to the dissolving of solid rock material in water.
Water often contains substances such as acids that enhance its
ability to dissolve other minerals.
Oxidation, otherwise known as rusting, occurs when oxygen combines
with iron to form
iron oxide. This process is greatly speeded up in the presence of
water and warm
temperatures. Oxidation is an important process in the decomposition
of mafic (iron and magnesium rich) minerals.
Hydrolysis is a permanent chemical combination with water.
The rock's minerals are chemically altered by reacting with water
and acid, resulting in expanded and weakened rock.