Rocks and Minerals Flashcard

Front

What is a mineral?

Back

A mineral is a naturally occurring, solid, crystal structure with a definite chemical composition, formed by an inorganic process.

Front

What is the process by which atoms are arranged to form a crystal?

Back

The process is called crystallization.

Front

What are rocks formed from magma and lava called?

Back

Igneous rocks.

Front

What is the process by which metamorphic rock changes to igneous rock?

Back

The process is melting.

Front

What is Moh's Hardness Scale?

Back

A scale used to help identify and rank the hardness of minerals.

Front

What are the two main types of igneous rocks?

Back

Intrusive (plutonic) and extrusive (volcanic) rocks.

Front

What is the difference between intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks?

Back

Intrusive rocks form from magma that cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface, while extrusive rocks form from lava that cools quickly on the surface.

Front

What is sedimentary rock?

Back

Sedimentary rock is formed from the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles.

Front

What are the three main types of rocks?

Back

Igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.

Front

What is metamorphic rock?

Back

Metamorphic rock is formed from existing rock that has been changed by heat, pressure, or chemically.