Rock Cycle

the solid aggregates of minerals that form the Earth’s crust, classified primarily by how they are formed.

the continuous transformation of rocks between igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic forms through geological processes like melting, weathering, and pressure.

form from the cooling and solidification of molten rock. They are the “primary” rocks of Earth’s crust.

molten rock beneath the surface

magma reaches the surface

physical type of igneous rocks: cools rapidly on the surface; crystals don’t have time to grow; fine-grained or glassy texture

physical type of igneous rocks: stays trapped underground; cools slowly over thousands of years; large, visible crystals

igneous composition types: rich in silica; light colored; less dense; continental crust

igneous composition types: a blend of felsic and mafic materials; common in volcanic arcs

igneous composition types: rich in Mg and Fe; dark colored; dense

igneous composition types: extremely high Mg and Fe; low silica; dark or olive green

Form at or near the Earth’s surface through the accumulation of debris. They act as a historical record of past environments.

Existing rocks are broken down into sediments (small particles like sand or mud) through ______. These are moved by wind or water (_______) and settle during _______.

lithification of sedimentary rocks: weight of overlying layers squeezes sediments together

lithification of sedimentary rocks: dissolved minerals act like glue to bind particles

The process where the original minerals in a sediment change their shape or size while remaining in a solid state.

The chemical removal of water molecules that are trapped within the crystal structure of a mineral.

Formed from the mechanical weathering of pre-existing rocks. Compaction of rock fragments.

These are formed from the accumulation of biological debris—the remains of plants or animals.

These are formed through chemical precipitation when minerals come out of a solution.

are “pre-existing” rocks that have been transformed by heat and pressure without melting into magma.

The original rock before it was changed.

It is the solid-state alteration of pre-existing rocks (protoliths) due to high temperatures, pressures, and chemical fluids, transforming their mineralogy and texture without melting.

Softens minerals (usually from nearby magma).