Rock Cycle Flashcard

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What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is a type of tectonic plate boundary where two plates move towards each other, often resulting in one plate being forced beneath the other, leading to geological features like mountains and earthquakes.

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What is a transform boundary?

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A transform boundary is a type of tectonic plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally, causing friction and often resulting in earthquakes.

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What is a divergent boundary?

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A divergent boundary is a type of tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises to the surface.

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How are sedimentary rocks formed?

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Sedimentary rocks are formed through the accumulation and compaction of sediments, which can include fragments of other rocks, minerals, and organic materials, often in bodies of water.

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What is the role of weathering in the rock cycle?

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Weathering is the process that breaks down rocks into smaller particles, which can then be transported and deposited to form sedimentary rocks.

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What is the significance of plate tectonics?

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Plate tectonics explains the movement of Earth's lithosphere, leading to the formation of various geological features and phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and mountain ranges.

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What is metamorphism?

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Metamorphism is the process by which existing rocks are transformed into metamorphic rocks through heat, pressure, and chemical processes without melting.

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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), and can be classified as intrusive (formed inside the Earth) or extrusive (formed on the surface).

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What is erosion?

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Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from one location and transported to another, often by wind, water, or ice.

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What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

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Weathering is the breakdown of rocks in place, while erosion involves the movement of those broken materials from one location to another.