Rocks and the Rock Cycle

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What are igneous rocks?

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Rocks formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava.

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How do igneous rocks form?

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Igneous rocks form when magma cools and solidifies, either beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive) or on the surface (extrusive).

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What is the difference between intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks?

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Intrusive igneous rocks form from magma that cools slowly underground, resulting in larger crystals, while extrusive igneous rocks form from lava that cools quickly on the surface, resulting in smaller crystals.

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What are sedimentary rocks?

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Rocks formed from the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles.

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How do sedimentary rocks form?

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Sedimentary rocks form through processes of compaction and cementation of sediments over time.

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What is the rock cycle?

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

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What are metamorphic rocks?

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Rocks that have been changed from their original form due to heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids.

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What processes can lead to the formation of metamorphic rocks?

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Metamorphic rocks can form through extreme heat and pressure, or through chemical processes.

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What is compaction in the context of sedimentary rock formation?

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Compaction is the process where sediments are pressed together under their own weight, reducing the space between them.

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What is cementation in sedimentary rock formation?

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Cementation is the process where dissolved minerals precipitate from water and fill the spaces between sediments, binding them together.