The Rock Cycle

Front

What is sediment?

Back

Sediment is small pieces of rock, minerals, and organic material that have been broken down by weathering and erosion.

Front

What type of rock is formed from cooled magma or lava?

Back

Igneous rock is formed from cooled magma (beneath the surface) or lava (on the surface).

Front

What processes lead to the formation of sedimentary rocks?

Back

Sedimentary rocks are formed through compaction and cementation of sediments.

Front

What is metamorphism?

Back

Metamorphism is the process by which existing rocks are transformed into metamorphic rocks through heat and pressure.

Front

What are the two main processes that change a metamorphic rock into an igneous rock?

Back

Melting and cooling are the two processes that change a metamorphic rock into an igneous rock.

Front

What is the role of weathering in the rock cycle?

Back

Weathering breaks down rocks into smaller pieces, contributing to the formation of sediment.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process by which sediments are transported from one location to another by wind, water, or ice.

Front

What is the difference between igneous and sedimentary rocks?

Back

Igneous rocks are formed from cooled magma or lava, while sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediments.

Front

What is the significance of heat and pressure in the rock cycle?

Back

Heat and pressure are crucial in forming metamorphic rocks from existing rocks.

Front

What is the process of compaction?

Back

Compaction is the process where sediments are pressed together under pressure, reducing their volume.