A natural process of mechanical disintegration and or chemical decomposition of the rocks of the crust of the Earth by certain physical and chemical agencies of the atmosphere is known as:

The correct answer is weathering.Key Points

• Weathering is the natural process of mechanical disintegration and/or chemical decomposition of rocks due to physical and chemical agents of the atmosphere.
• Weathering can be caused by various factors such as temperature changes, water, wind, and living organisms.
• Weathering can lead to the formation of soil, sedimentary rocks, and mineral deposits.

Additional Information

• Solidification of rocks:
  • This refers to the process of molten rocks cooling and hardening to form solid rocks.
  • This process is also known as crystallization.
  • Igneous rocks are formed through solidification.
• New rock formation:
  • This can occur through various processes such as volcanic activity, where molten rocks are ejected from the Earth's interior and solidify on the surface.
  • Sedimentary rocks can also form from the accumulation of sediment on the Earth's surface.