The Rock Cycle

Front

What is the rock cycle?

Back

The rock cycle is a continuous process that describes the transformation of rocks through various stages: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

Front

What is an extrusive igneous rock?

Back

An extrusive igneous rock is formed from the cooling of lava on the Earth's surface, such as basalt.

Front

What is an intrusive igneous rock?

Back

An intrusive igneous rock is formed from the cooling of magma below the Earth's surface, such as granite.

Front

What is weathering?

Back

Weathering is the breakdown of rocks due to environmental factors like rain, wind, ice, and sunlight.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process of transporting weathered materials from one location to another, often by water, wind, or ice.

Front

What is deposition?

Back

Deposition is the natural process of adding transported sediments to a landform, forming new geological features.

Front

What is lithification?

Back

Lithification is the process of turning sediments into solid rock through compaction and cementation.

Front

What is a sedimentary rock?

Back

A sedimentary rock is formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediments, such as sandstone or limestone.

Front

What is a metamorphic rock?

Back

A metamorphic rock is formed from the alteration of existing rocks due to heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids.

Front

What happens to a metamorphic rock when it is subducted?

Back

When a metamorphic rock is subducted, it can melt and form magma, which may eventually erupt as lava.