BOOTCAMP SC.7.E.6.2 EQUIVALENT EXPERIENCE

What is the rock cycle?

• The process of forming only igneous rocks.

• The continuous process of rock formation and change, including the transformation between igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock types.

Answer explanation

The rock cycle describes the continuous process of rock formation and change, involving the transformation between igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks, making the second choice the correct answer.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

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How does weathering affect rocks in the rock cycle?

• It melts rocks into magma.

• It breaks down rocks into smaller pieces, creating sediments that can later form sedimentary rock.

Answer explanation

Weathering breaks down rocks into smaller pieces, which creates sediments. These sediments can accumulate and eventually compact and cement together to form sedimentary rock, making this process crucial in the rock cycle.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

What is erosion, and how does it relate to the rock cycle?

• Erosion is the movement of weathered rock and sediments by wind, water, or ice, contributing to the formation of new sedimentary layers.

• Erosion is the process of rocks growing larger.

Answer explanation

Erosion involves the movement of weathered rock and sediments by natural forces like wind, water, or ice. This process is crucial in the rock cycle as it helps form new sedimentary layers, making the first answer correct.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

How do plate tectonics influence the rock cycle?

• Plate movement can create pressure and heat, leading to the formation of metamorphic rock or causing volcanic activity that forms igneous rock.

• They have no effect on the rock cycle.

Answer explanation

Plate tectonics influence the rock cycle by creating pressure and heat, which can lead to the formation of metamorphic rock. Additionally, tectonic activity can cause volcanic eruptions that produce igneous rock.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

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What role do mountain-building events play in the rock cycle?

• Mountain formation leads to uplift, exposing rocks to weathering and erosion, restarting the cycle.

• They prevent rocks from changing.

Answer explanation

Mountain-building events cause uplift, which exposes rocks to weathering and erosion. This process is essential in the rock cycle as it breaks down rocks and allows for the formation of new sedimentary rocks, thus restarting the cycle.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

How is sedimentary rock formed?

• By melting igneous rock.

• When layers of sediment are compacted and cemented over time.

Answer explanation

Sedimentary rock forms when layers of sediment accumulate over time and are compacted and cemented together, creating solid rock. This process is distinct from the melting of igneous rock.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

What happens when igneous rock undergoes heat and pressure?

• It transforms into metamorphic rock.

• It becomes water.

Answer explanation

When igneous rock is subjected to heat and pressure, it undergoes metamorphism, transforming into metamorphic rock. This process alters its mineral composition and structure, unlike becoming water.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

How does magma play a role in the rock cycle?

• It turns into sedimentary rock when cooled.

• When magma cools, it solidifies into igneous rock, beginning the cycle again.

Answer explanation

Magma cools and solidifies to form igneous rock, which is a key step in the rock cycle. This process initiates the cycle anew, as igneous rock can later be weathered and transformed into sedimentary rock.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

What natural events speed up the rock cycle?

• Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain-building processes.

• Tides and ocean currents.

Answer explanation

Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain-building processes are key natural events that disrupt and reshape the Earth's crust, accelerating the rock cycle by facilitating the formation and transformation of rocks.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Why is the rock cycle considered a never-ending process?

• Because rocks eventually disappear.

• Because rocks are continuously broken down, transformed, and recreated through surface and sub-surface geological events.

Answer explanation

The rock cycle is considered never-ending because rocks are constantly being broken down, transformed, and recreated through various geological processes, ensuring a continuous cycle of change.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1