Rocks , Mining and Quarrying

Igneous Rocks

Rocks formed due to volcanic activities

Granite

Igneous rock formed when magma cools slowly underground

Basalt

Igneous rock formed when magma cools quickly on the surface of the Earth

Sedimentary Rock

rocks created when great pressure compresses sediment int a solid form over millions of years

Lithification

Process through which sediment becomes a solid rock

Sandstone

Sedimentary rock made from compressed sand

Limestone

sedimentary rock that contains fossils

dissolves in water

Metamorphic

rocks that transform from igneous or sedimentary rocks into something completely new.

happens because of great heat and pressure

Marble

metamorphic rock coming from limestone

Quartzite

Metamorphic rock made from sandstone

The Rock cycle

Creation, destruction and transformation of all rocks

The rock Cycle - Creation

rocks made at separating plate boundaries and sedimentary rocks

The Rock Cycle - Destruction

happens at colliding plate boundaries

processes such as subduction, weathering and mass movement

The Rock Cycle - Transformation

Metamorphic processes

Quarry

a large area where rocks and minerals are extracted from the Earth

name 3 positives of quarrying

employment

improved transport

Tourism (such as the Burren)

name 3 negatives of quarrying

Noise

habitat damage

Air pollution

what do hundreds of quarries in Ireland produce?

Aggregates - Small pieces of rock such as sand and gravel

What quarry generates income for Ireland economy

Feltrim quarry in Co.Dublin

How do quarries affect the housing market

People do not want to live in the noisy areas that come with them.

What quarry in Dublin has promoted biodiversity?

Roadstone quarry planted trees to promote biodiversity

What are many quarries doing now?

Focusing on balancing positive and negative factors of their businesses.

uses of rocks

Household items

Tourism

Fuel such as coal