Types of Rocks and Their Formation

A collection of flashcards defining key terms related to the types of rocks and their geological processes.

Igneous Rock

Rocks formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava.

Sedimentary Rock

Rocks formed from the compression of sediments, which can include fragments of other rocks and the remains of organic matter.

Metamorphic Rock

Rocks that have been transformed by heat, pressure, or both, changing their appearance and chemical composition.

Plutonic/Ignostic Rock

Igneous rock formed from magma that cools slowly underground, e.g., granite.

Volcanic/Extrusive Rock

Igneous rock formed from lava that cools quickly on the Earth's surface, e.g., basalt.

Lithification

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

Denudation

The process of erosion and weathering that removes surface material.

Folding

The process that occurs in earth's crust when rock layers are compressed and bent, often forming mountains.

Contact Metamorphism

Metamorphism that occurs when rocks are heated by nearby molten magma.

Regional Metamorphism

Metamorphism that occurs over large areas due to increased heat and pressure, typically associated with tectonic plate boundaries.

Limestone

A common sedimentary rock composed mainly of calcium carbonate from the remains of marine organisms.

Marble

A metamorphic rock formed from limestone under heat and pressure.

Quartzite

A metamorphic rock formed from sandstone, known for its extreme hardness and lack of layers.

The Rock Cycle

The continuous process of formation, breakdown, and reformation of rocks through geological processes.