Which consequence results when ancient Andean terrace walls experience significant freeze-thaw cycles at high altitude?

💡 Explanation

When terrace walls experience freeze-thaw cycles, cryofracturing occurs because water expands upon freezing within the wall’s porous structure, leading to cracking and eventual disintegration. Therefore, accelerated soil erosion and collapse of the terraces results, rather than nutrient leeching, waterlogging, or decreased thermal regulation which involve different geological processes.

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