The rock cycleThere is not only one type of rock that exists There are multiple types of rocks, and they continue to change form accordingly to the effects solar energy has on them. This cycle is known as the Rock Cycle, and similarly to the water cycle, the forms of the types of rocks keeps on altering.
The types of rocksThere are three types of rocks:
Igneous Rocks: Igneous rocks derive directly from molten magma, from underground at the mantle and the cores. When magma cools ,it solidifies to form rocks. Igneous rocks are further categorized into intrusive and extrusive rocks, depending on where and how they form. Sedimentary Rocks: Sedimentary rocks are a combination of sediment from weathering and erosion. These sediment are held together by a cement-like material. There are two types of sedimentary rocks:
Metamorphic Rocks are rocks that have been modified by heat, pressure or chemical process. The heat within the earth may alter and replace mineral positions and types Foliated rocks are a type of metamorphic rocks with crystals arranged in parallel layers or bands. (non-foliated metamorphic rocks also exist). |