Rock Cycle

The rock cycle is a continuous process through which rocks are transformed from one type to another over time. It is driven by various geological forces such as heat, pressure, weathering, and erosion. The rock cycle consists of three main types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

Igneous Rocks

Definition: Igneous rocks are formed from the solidification of molten materials such as lava or magma.

Formation: Igneous rocks are formed through the cooling and solidification of molten materials. When magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth's surface, it forms intrusive igneous rocks. When lava cools and solidifies on the Earth's surface, it forms extrusive igneous rocks.

Examples: Basalt, granite, and obsidian are examples of igneous rocks.

Sedimentary Rocks

Definition: Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compression of sediments.

Formation: Sedimentary rocks are formed through the deposition, burial, and lithification of sediments. This process involves the compaction and cementation of sediments over time.

Examples: Sandstone, limestone, and shale are examples of sedimentary rocks.

Metamorphic Rocks

Definition: Metamorphic rocks are formed from the alteration of pre-existing rocks due to heat and pressure.

Formation: Metamorphic rocks are formed through the alteration of existing rocks (igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks) under high temperature and pressure conditions. This process causes the minerals in the rocks to re-crystallize and re-align, resulting in the formation of new rocks with different properties.

Examples: Marble, slate, and schist are examples of metamorphic rocks.

Rock Cycle Processes

The rock cycle involves several processes that contribute to the transformation of rocks from one type to another. These processes include melting, cooling, crystallization, weathering, erosion, deposition, compaction, cementation, and metamorphism.

Study Guide

1. Describe the three main types of rocks in the rock cycle and their formation processes.
2. Explain the processes involved in the transformation of rocks from one type to another in the rock cycle.
3. Identify examples of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
4. Discuss the role of geological forces such as heat, pressure, weathering, and erosion in the rock cycle.
5. Illustrate the rock cycle through a diagram or flowchart, highlighting the interconnected processes and rock types.

Understanding the rock cycle is important for comprehending the dynamic nature of Earth's geology and the continuous changes that occur within the Earth's crust.