Geological Processes and Rock Types

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Melting

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A substance changes from a solid to a liquid.

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Crystallization

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The process of crystals forming often when liquids cool and harden.

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Weathering

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The process of rock breaking down into smaller pieces due to wind or moving water.

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Deformation

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Changing the shape of something by applying force or pressure, such as pushing or twisting.

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Sedimentation

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Small pieces of rock that break down and settle at the bottom of bodies of water.

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Igneous Rock

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Formed by the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma = underground, lava = above ground). Igneous means fire in Latin.

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Sedimentary Rock

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Formed by sediment (pre-existing rock or shells) accumulated on the Earth's surface followed by cementation. Often forms in layers at the bottom of the ocean.

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Metamorphic Rock

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Rocks that have been transformed from pre-existing rock (igneous, sedimentary or metamorphic) by heat or pressure.