Big Idea 6 Earth Structures

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What are fossil fuels?

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Fossil fuels are natural resources formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, including coal, oil, and natural gas. They are considered nonrenewable resources because they take millions of years to form.

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What are nonrenewable resources?

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Nonrenewable resources are natural resources that cannot be replenished in a short period of time. Examples include fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas.

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What are metamorphic rocks?

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Metamorphic rocks are types of rocks that have been changed from their original form due to extreme heat and pressure.

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What is erosion?

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Erosion is the process by which rock and soil are worn away and transported by natural forces such as gravity, wind, water, and ice.

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How does gravity contribute to erosion?

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Gravity causes erosion by pulling rocks and soil down slopes, leading to the movement of materials from higher to lower areas.

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What is cleavage in minerals?

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Cleavage is the tendency of a mineral to break along smooth, flat surfaces. It is a key property used to identify minerals.

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What are igneous rocks?

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Igneous rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava). Examples include granite and basalt.

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What are sedimentary rocks?

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Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles. Examples include sandstone and limestone.

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What is the rock cycle?

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The rock cycle is the continuous process of rock formation and transformation, involving igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.

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What is weathering?

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Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces through physical, chemical, or biological means.