Rocks and Rock Cycle

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Geologist Noun

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[jee-ol-uh-jist]

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Geologist

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A scientist who studies the solid, liquid, and gaseous matter that constitutes the Earth and other terrestrial planets.

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Igneous Rock Noun

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[ig-nee-uhs rok]

Back

Igneous Rock

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A type of rock formed through the cooling and solidification of magma or lava, either above or below the surface.

Front

Sedimentary Rock Noun

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[sed-uh-men-tuh-ree rok]

Back

Sedimentary Rock

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Rock formed from the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of sediment at the Earth's surface and within bodies of water.

Front

Metamorphic Rock Noun

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[met-uh-mawr-fik rok]

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Metamorphic Rock

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Rock that has been changed from its original form by immense heat, pressure, or other chemical alteration processes.

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Magma Noun

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[mag-muh]

Back

Magma

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Molten or semi-molten natural material from which all igneous rocks are formed, found beneath the Earth's surface.

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Lava Noun

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[lah-vuh]

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Lava

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Molten rock that has been expelled from the interior of a terrestrial planet or a moon onto its surface.

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Weathering Noun

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[weth-er-ing]

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Weathering

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The process of breaking down rocks, soil, and minerals through direct contact with the Earth's atmosphere, water, and organisms.

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Erosion Noun

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[ih-roh-zhuhn]

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Erosion

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The geological process in which earthen materials are worn away and transported by natural forces such as wind or water.

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Deposition Noun

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[dep-uh-zish-uhn]

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Deposition

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The geological process in which sediments, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or land mass.

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Compaction Noun

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[kuhm-pak-shuhn]

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Compaction

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The process by which the porosity of a given form of sediment is decreased as its mineral grains are squeezed together.