Answer:Weathering is primarily caused by physical, chemical, and biological processes acting on rocks and minerals at the Earth's surface. Physical weathering includes processes such as freeze-thaw cycles, root growth, abrasion by wind and water, and thermal expansion and contraction. Chemical weathering involves reactions that break down rocks and minerals through processes like hydration, oxidation, and hydrolysis. Biological weathering occurs when organisms such as plants and bacteria contribute to the breakdown of rocks.References: Leet, L. D., Uang, C. M., & Gilbert, A. M. (2020). Fundamentals of Structural Analysis. McGraw-Hill Education.