Vocabulary Rock Cycle Worksheet

Are you searching for an engaging and educational resource to strengthen your understanding of the rock cycle? Look no further! Introducing the Vocabulary Rock Cycle Worksheet, designed specifically for students and enthusiasts of geology. This comprehensive worksheet delves into the various entities and subjects surrounding the rock cycle, allowing users to enhance their knowledge and vocabulary in a fun and interactive way.

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What is the definition of the term "rock cycle"?

The rock cycle is a continuous process in which rocks are formed, broken down, and reformed over time. This cycle involves various geological processes such as weathering, erosion, deposition, sedimentation, lithification, and metamorphism, which contribute to the transformation of rocks from one type to another, including igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.

Name three types of rocks that are part of the rock cycle.

The three types of rocks that are part of the rock cycle are igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks. Igneous rocks form from the cooling and solidification of molten magma or lava. Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of sediments that are compacted and cemented together. Metamorphic rocks are formed from existing rocks that undergo changes in mineral composition and texture due to intense heat and pressure.

What is the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller pieces?

The process by which rocks are broken down into smaller pieces is called weathering. Weathering occurs through physical (mechanical) processes such as abrasion, freezing and thawing, and chemical processes such as dissolution and oxidation. Over time, weathering breaks rocks into smaller fragments, eventually forming sediment that can be transported and deposited by erosion.

Explain the process of erosion.

Erosion is the process by which materials are worn away and removed from the Earth's surface by natural forces such as water, wind, and ice. It begins with the weathering of rocks and soils, breaking them into smaller particles. These particles are then transported by the erosive forces, such as rivers, glaciers, and wind, and deposited in new locations. Over time, erosion can reshape landscapes, carving out valleys, canyons, and coastlines.

Define the term "sedimentary rock" and provide an example.

Sedimentary rocks are types of rocks that are formed by the deposition and solidification of weathered and eroded materials like sand, mud, and organic matter. Over time, these materials compact and cement together to create layered rocks. An example of a sedimentary rock is limestone, which is formed from the accumulation of shells and coral fragments.

How are igneous rocks formed?

Igneous rocks are formed through the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. When molten rock from beneath the Earth's surface rises and cools, it can crystallize and form igneous rocks. The speed of cooling and the mineral composition of the magma/lava play a significant role in determining the texture and characteristics of the resulting igneous rock, which can range from fine-grained to coarse-grained.

What is the difference between intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks?

Intrusive igneous rocks form below the Earth's surface from magma that slowly cools and solidifies, resulting in large crystal sizes due to the slow cooling process. On the other hand, extrusive igneous rocks form on the Earth's surface from lava that quickly cools and solidifies, resulting in small or no crystal sizes due to the rapid cooling process. Extrusive rocks tend to have a more fine-grained texture compared to the coarse-grained texture of intrusive rocks.

Describe the process of metamorphism.

Metamorphism is the process by which rocks undergo changes in mineralogy, texture, and sometimes chemical composition due to high temperature, pressure, and/or fluids. It typically occurs deep within the Earth's crust or mantle where these conditions are present. During metamorphism, existing rocks are subjected to these intense conditions, causing minerals to recrystallize and reorganize, leading to the formation of new minerals and textures. This process can result in the formation of metamorphic rocks such as marble, slate, and gneiss, which possess distinct physical and chemical characteristics compared to their original rock type.

Name three types of rocks that can be formed through metamorphism.

Three types of rocks that can be formed through metamorphism are marble, quartzite, and schist.

What happens to rocks in the rock cycle when they are exposed to high heat and pressure?

When rocks are exposed to high heat and pressure, they undergo metamorphism, which causes them to change in mineral composition and texture. This process can result in the formation of new types of rocks such as metamorphic rocks like marble, slate, and gneiss through recrystallization and reorganization of minerals in the original rock.