Earth Systems 3209: Unit 3 - Earth Materials (Rocks)

These flashcards cover major concepts regarding igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks, their classifications, and processes involved in their formation and transformation.

Igneous Rocks

Rocks that have solidified from a molten state, either from magma or lava.

Magma

Molten rock located below Earth's surface.

Lava

Molten rock that reaches Earth's surface.

Plutonic (intrusive)

Igneous rocks that form from magma below the Earth's surface.

Volcanic (extrusive)

Igneous rocks that form from lava on the Earth's surface.

Sedimentary Rocks

Types of rock formed from deposition and cementation of mineral or organic particles.

Metamorphic Rocks

Rocks formed from pre-existing rocks that are altered by heat, pressure, and chemically active fluids.

Weathering

The process of breaking down rocks through mechanical or chemical means.

Erosion

The transport of sediments by wind, water, ice, or gravity.

Lithification

The process of converting sediments into solid sedimentary rock through compaction and cementation.

Clastic Sedimentary Rocks

Rocks formed from fragments of other rocks. Examples include shale, sandstone, and conglomerate.

Chemical Sedimentary Rocks

Rocks formed by precipitation of minerals from water. Examples include limestone and salt.

Organic Sedimentary Rocks

Rocks formed from the accumulation of plant and animal debris. Examples include coal and coquina.

Metamorphism

The process by which rocks undergo transformation in mineral composition and texture due to heat and pressure.

Foliated Texture

A texture in metamorphic rocks where minerals are aligned in layers or bands.

Non-foliated Texture

A texture in metamorphic rocks that does not exhibit layering.

Bowen's Reaction Series

A concept that explains the order in which different minerals crystallize from cooling magma.

Mafic

Igneous rocks that are rich in magnesium and iron, usually dark in color.

Felsic

Igneous rocks that are rich in silica and lighter minerals, usually light in color.

Anthracite

The highest grade of coal, metamorphosed to a high carbon content.

Gneiss

A high-grade metamorphic rock that has distinct foliation.

Marble

A non-foliated metamorphic rock formed from limestone.

Quartzite

A hard, non-foliated metamorphic rock formed from sandstone.