Rocks and Mineral Review

Front

What is a mineral?

Back

A naturally occurring inorganic solid with a definite chemical composition and a crystalline structure.

Front

What is the Mohs scale of hardness?

Back

A scale that ranks minerals based on their ability to scratch one another, from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond).

Front

What is an igneous rock?

Back

A type of rock formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava.

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.

Front

What is metamorphism?

Back

The process by which existing rocks are changed into metamorphic rocks due to heat, pressure, and chemically active fluids.

Front

What are sedimentary rocks?

Back

Rocks formed from the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles, often containing fossils.

Front

What is the rock cycle?

Back

The continuous process by which rocks are formed, broken down, and reformed through geological processes.

Front

What is gneiss?

Back

A metamorphic rock characterized by its banded appearance, formed from granite under extreme heat and pressure.

Front

What is the role of pressure in rock formation?

Back

Pressure can cause changes in the structure and composition of rocks, leading to the formation of metamorphic rocks.

Front

What is the definition of a foliated rock?

Back

A type of metamorphic rock that has a layered or banded appearance due to the alignment of minerals.