Geology 11: The Rock Cycle and Processes

This set of flashcards is designed to help students review the key concepts discussed in the Geology 11 lecture on the rock cycle and the processes involved in the formation of rocks.

What are rocks?

Naturally occurring aggregates of one or more minerals.

What are the three major rock types?

Igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.

How are igneous rocks formed?

Through the solidification of molten rock (magma) and involves processes like melting, cooling, and crystallization.

What processes lead to the formation of sedimentary rocks?

Weathering, transport, deposition, and diagenesis (compaction and cementation).

What is metamorphism?

The process of change undergone by an existing rock (protolith) in solid-state to another rock due to heat, pressure, and chemically active fluids.

What is the definition of diagenesis?

Physical, chemical, and biological processes that transform sediments into sedimentary rock.

What are the agents of metamorphism?

Heat, pressure, and chemically-active fluids.

What is the process of recrystallization?

The transformation of minerals due to changes in temperature and pressure during metamorphism.

What distinguishes contact metamorphism?

It occurs when magma invades pre-existing rocks, creating an alteration zone around the intrusion.

What is the Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI)?

A measure used to characterize the explosivity of a volcanic eruption based on the amount of tephra ejected and eruption cloud height.

What are the characteristics of sedimentary rocks?

They are composed of sediments (detrital or biochemical), undergo lithification, and serve as records of Earth's geological history.

What influences the texture of igneous rocks?

The rate of cooling, amount of silica, and presence of volatiles.

What is magma?

Molten rock beneath the Earth’s surface, consisting of liquid, solid minerals, and dissolved gases.

What is the role of hydrothermal fluids in metamorphism?

They promote recrystallization of minerals and speed up chemical reactions.

What causes weathering?

Mechanical or chemical processes that break down rocks and minerals at or near the Earth's surface.

How does sediment transport occur?

Through agents such as water, wind, ice, and gravity.