The Rock Cycle: Introduction and Basic Rock Types

Which statement best defines the rock cycle?

• A one-time event where rocks form and stay the same

• A continuous process where rocks are created, changed, broken down, and reformed over long periods

• A rapid process that only happens during volcanic eruptions

• A cycle that affects only igneous rocks

Which list correctly names the three main rock types introduced in this section?

• Granite, basalt, and sandstone

• Igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic

• Intrusive, extrusive, and chemical

• Magma, lava, and soil

Granite is described as forming deep underground from slowly cooled magma. What kind of igneous rock is granite?

• Extrusive igneous rock

• Metamorphic rock

• Intrusive igneous rock

• Sedimentary rock

Which example correctly matches the rock with its typical formation environment or process?

• Basalt—forms from slowly cooled magma deep underground

• Sandstone—forms from compacted sand particles

• Marble—forms directly from cooled lava at the surface

• Slate—forms when limestone is subjected to heat and pressure

According to the examples of transitions, which sequence shows a sedimentary rock becoming metamorphic?

• Granite → Sand → Sandstone

• Shale → Slate (by heat and pressure)

• Any rock → Magma (by melting) → Basalt (by cooling)

• Limestone → Sandstone (by compaction and cementation)

Which statement about basalt in this section is accurate?

• It forms in mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada from slowly cooled magma.

• It forms from lava that cools quickly on Earth’s surface and is extrusive.

• It is created from compacted shells and marine life remains.

• It results when sandstone undergoes intense heat and pressure.

A student claims all rocks are basically the same. Which idea from this section best addresses this misconception?

• Rocks are always formed at Earth’s surface.

• There are three main types—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—that form in different ways.

• Only igneous rocks can transform into other rocks.

• Rocks never undergo heat and pressure.

Which transition best demonstrates weathering/erosion followed by compaction and cementation?

• Granite → Sand → Sandstone

• Shale → Slate

• Limestone → Marble

• Any rock → Magma → Basalt

Which sedimentary rock listed is created from accumulated shells and marine life remains in ancient seas?

• Sandstone

• Slate

• Limestone

• Marble

Which statement best corrects the misconception that rocks and minerals are the same thing?

• Rocks and minerals are both single substances with crystal structures.

• Minerals are the building blocks of rocks; rocks can be made of one or more minerals.

• Rocks are made only in volcanoes, while minerals form in oceans.

• Minerals are mixtures of rocks and organic materials.