The Rock Cycle and Radiometric Dating Practice Flashcard

Front

What is the rock cycle?

Back

The rock cycle is a continuous process that describes the transformation of rocks through various geological processes, including igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic formations.

Front

What are igneous rocks?

Back

Igneous rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. They can be classified as intrusive (formed inside the Earth) or extrusive (formed on the surface).

Front

What is a half-life?

Back

A half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay into a different element.

Front

How do you calculate the number of half-lives?

Back

To calculate the number of half-lives, use the formula: Number of half-lives = log(final amount/original amount) / log(1/2).

Front

What is a parent element?

Back

The parent element is the original radioactive isotope that undergoes decay to form a daughter element.

Front

What is a daughter element?

Back

The daughter element is the product of the decay of a parent element in a radioactive decay process.

Front

What are metamorphic rocks?

Back

Metamorphic rocks are formed from existing rocks that have been changed by heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids.

Front

What are sedimentary rocks?

Back

Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles, often in layers.

Front

What is the significance of radiometric dating?

Back

Radiometric dating is a method used to determine the age of rocks and fossils by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes.

Front

What is the difference between intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks?

Back

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