Rock Types and Formation

Vocabulary flashcards about types of rocks and their formation.

Deposition

The geological process in which sediments, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or land mass.

Compaction

The process by which sediments are pressed together under their weight.

Cementation

The process by which dissolved minerals crystallize and glue sediments together into a coherent rock.

Sedimentary Rock

Rock that has been formed by layers of sediment being pressed down hard so that they stick together.

Weathering

The breaking down or dissolving of rocks and minerals on the Earth’s surface.

Erosion

The process by which soil and rock particles are worn away and moved elsewhere by wind, water, or ice.

Sedimentation

The process where pieces of rock are transported and deposited at the bottom of the sea.

Mineral

Natural inorganic substance that exists in Earth’s crust.

Ore

Minerals from which metal can be extracted economically and conveniently.

Igneous Rocks

Rocks formed from cooled lava and magma.

Metamorphic Rocks

Rocks changed by heat and pressure deep underground.

Limestone

A type of sedimentary rock common in the UAE, formed from layers of sand, shells, and other materials.