Minerals and Rock CFA Review 2025

Front

What are the three types of rocks?

Back

metamorphic, sedimentary, igneous

Answer explanation

The three main types of rocks are metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous. These categories are based on how the rocks are formed, distinguishing them from other terms like weathering and erosion, which describe processes.

Front

How is sedimentary rock formed?

Back

When sediment is eroded, compacted and cemented.

Answer explanation

Sedimentary rock forms when sediment is eroded, compacted, and cemented. This process involves the accumulation of particles that are compacted under pressure and then bound together by minerals, making this choice the most accurate.

Front

Magma is

Back

molten rock below the crust

Answer explanation

Magma is defined as molten rock that is found below the Earth's crust. In contrast, lava refers to magma that has erupted onto the surface. Therefore, the correct answer is 'molten rock below the crust'.

Front

Weathering is

Back

the breaking down of rock by kinds of weather

Answer explanation

Weathering refers to the breaking down of rock by various weather conditions, such as wind, water, and temperature changes. This process is essential in shaping landscapes and forming soil.

Front

A rock is

Back

a naturally occurring mixture of minerals

Answer explanation

A rock is defined as a naturally occurring mixture of minerals, making the second choice correct. The other options describe different substances or materials that do not fit the geological definition of a rock.

Front

The rock cycle is

Back

natural steps that form rock and change it to other forms

Answer explanation

The rock cycle describes the natural processes that form rocks and transform them into different types, including sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. Thus, the correct choice is the one that highlights these transformations.

Front

How is metamorphic rock formed?

Back

Existing rock is put under high pressure and heat.

Answer explanation

Metamorphic rock is formed when existing rock undergoes high pressure and heat, causing physical and chemical changes. This process differentiates it from sedimentary and igneous rocks, which form through different mechanisms.

Front

Lava is

Back

magma above the crust

Answer explanation

Lava is magma that has reached the Earth's surface, making it magma above the crust. The other options refer to magma in different states or locations, which do not accurately describe lava.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

The movement of sediment by wind, water, ice, or gravity.

Answer explanation

Erosion is defined as the movement of sediment by natural forces such as wind, water, ice, or gravity. The correct choice accurately describes this process, while the other options either misrepresent erosion or include irrelevant factors.

Front

Rocks are classified into 3 types by

Back

the way they are formed

Answer explanation

Rocks are classified into three types based on how they are formed: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. This classification reflects their origin and formation processes, making 'the way they are formed' the correct choice.