Geology and Rocks

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What is the geosphere?

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The study of the physical characteristics of the earth.

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What are rocks?

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Solid masses of minerals that make up the Earth's surface and layers.

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How are rocks classified?

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Based on their method of formation/origin.

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What are the three main groups of rocks?

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Igneous, Sedimentary, Metamorphic.

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How do igneous rocks form?

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From the cooling and crystallization/solidification of molten lava or magma.

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What are extrusive igneous rocks?

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Rocks that form from the fast cooling of lava on or near Earth’s surface.

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What are intrusive igneous rocks?

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Rocks that form from the slow cooling of magma within the Earth.

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What is sedimentary rock?

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Rocks that form from the accumulation of sediment, often in horizontal layers.

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What conditions lead to the formation of sedimentary rocks?

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Accumulation of sediment, pressure, and time.

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What is metamorphism?

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The process by which rocks undergo changes due to heat, pressure, and chemical activity.