To determine which city's rocks are most likely to experience frost wedging, we need to consider two main criteria:
1. The presence of substantial moisture as frost wedging requires water to seep into rock cracks.
2. Temperatures that fluctuate around the freezing point (0°C), as freezing and thawing cycles cause frost wedging.
Step-by-Step Analysis:
1. City A:
- Climate: Dry
- Day Temperature: -11°C
- Night Temperature: -30°C
Although the temperatures are well below freezing, the dry climate means there is insufficient moisture for frost wedging to occur effectively. Constantly subzero temperatures would also mean less frequent thawing.
2. City B:
- Climate: Wet
- Day Temperature: 5°C
- Night Temperature: -4°C
This city experiences fluctuating temperatures around the freezing point (0°C) and has a wet climate, providing the necessary moisture and freeze-thaw cycles ideal for frost wedging.
3. City C:
- Climate: Wet
- Day Temperature: 14°C
- Night Temperature: 6°C
Although this city has a wet climate, the temperatures are well above freezing during both day and night. Therefore, the necessary freeze-thaw cycles for frost wedging do not occur here.
4. City D:
- Climate: Dry
- Day Temperature: 26°C
- Night Temperature: 17°C
This city is both dry and has high temperatures, making it unsuitable for frost wedging as there is not enough moisture and the temperatures do not fall around the freezing point.
Conclusion:
Given the above analysis, City B is most likely to experience frost wedging. This is due to its wet climate, providing sufficient moisture, and its temperature fluctuations around the freezing point, allowing for the freeze-thaw cycles necessary for frost wedging.
Thus, the correct answer is:
B. City B because it is a wet region and the temperature fluctuates around the freezing point.
