rock cycle

Question 1

Igneous Rock

Answer 1

Igneous rock (derived from the Latin word ignis meaning fire), or magmatic rock, is one of the three main rock types, the others being sedimentary and metamorphic. Igneous rock is formed through the cooling and solidification of magma or lava.

Question 2

Sedimentary Rock

Answer 2

Sedimentary rocks are types of rock that are formed by the accumulation or deposition of mineral or organic particles at the Earth’s surface, followed by cementation. Sedimentation is the collective name for processes that cause these particles to settle in place.

Question 3

Metamorphic Rock

Answer 3

Metamorphic rocks were once igneous or sedimentary rocks, but have been changed (metamorphosed) as a result of intense heat and/or pressure within the Earth’s crust. They are crystalline and often have a “squashed” (foliated or banded) texture.

Question 4

Crystallization

Answer 4

Crystallization or crystallisation is the process by which a solid forms, where the atoms or molecules are highly organized into a structure known as a crystal. Some of the ways by which crystals form are precipitating from a solution, freezing, or more rarely deposition directly from a gas.

Question 5

Lithification

Answer 5

Lithification (from the Ancient Greek word lithos meaning ‘rock’ and the Latin-derived suffix -ific) is the process in which sediments compact under pressure, expel connate fluids, and gradually become solid rock. Essentially, lithification is a process of porosity destruction through compaction and cementation.

Question 6

Sediment

Answer 6

matter that settles to the bottom of a liquid; dregs.

Question 7

Deposition

Answer 7

the action of deposing someone, especially a monarch.

Question 8

Weathering

Answer 8

the process of wearing or being worn by long exposure to the atmosphere.

Question 9

Erosion

Answer 9

the process of eroding or being eroded by wind, water, or other natural agents.