Real-World Examples of the Rock Cycle in Action Around Us

📚 Quick Study Guide

🔍 The rock cycle is a continuous process where rocks change from one type to another (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic). 🌋 Igneous rocks form from cooled magma or lava. Think of volcanoes! 🌊 Sedimentary rocks form from sediments (like sand and pebbles) that are compacted and cemented together. Layers are key! 🔥 Metamorphic rocks form when existing rocks are changed by heat and pressure. ⛰️ Weathering and erosion break down rocks into smaller pieces. 💧 Transportation moves these sediments via wind, water, or ice. 🔄 Uplift exposes deeply buried rocks to the surface.

🧪 Practice Quiz

1. Which process is primarily responsible for the formation of igneous rocks?
   1. A. Compaction and cementation
   2. B. Melting and cooling
   3. C. Heat and pressure
   4. D. Weathering and erosion
2. Sedimentary rocks are often characterized by which feature?
   1. A. Large crystals
   2. B. Layered appearance
   3. C. Foliation
   4. D. Vesicles
3. What is the primary agent of metamorphism?
   1. A. Wind
   2. B. Water
   3. C. Heat and pressure
   4. D. Ice
4. Which process involves the breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces?
   1. A. Metamorphism
   2. B. Igneous intrusion
   3. C. Weathering
   4. D. Sedimentation
5. A rock that has been changed by heat and pressure is called what?
   1. A. Igneous
   2. B. Sedimentary
   3. C. Metamorphic
   4. D. Magma
6. The transportation of sediments often involves which agents?
   1. A. Only wind
   2. B. Only water
   3. C. Only ice
   4. D. Wind, water, and ice
7. Which of the following is an example of an igneous rock?
   1. A. Limestone
   2. B. Sandstone
   3. C. Granite
   4. D. Slate