Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic Rocks

Igneous Rock Formation

• Igneous rocks form from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma).
• Granite forms from slowly cooling magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides.
• Basalt is an extrusive igneous rock, formed from rapidly cooling lava at the Earth's surface.

Sedimentary Rock Formation

• Sedimentary rocks are formed from pre-existing rock fragments or the remains of organisms that accumulate on the Earth's surface.
• Limestone forms from the accumulation of the remains of sea creatures.
• Sandstone forms from compressed sand.

Metamorphic Rock Formation

• Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks undergo changes due to high heat, high pressure, or hot fluids.
• Marble forms when limestone is exposed to high temperatures.
• Quartzite forms when quartz-rich sandstone experiences metamorphism.

Rock Examples in Ireland

• Granite (Donegal)
• Limestone (Clare)
• Quartzite (Wicklow)

Geothermal Energy

• Uses heat from underground volcanic rocks to generate steam for power.
• Advantages: clean, continuous energy source, continuous supply of hot water..
• Disadvantages: expensive to drill deeply, limited locations.

Finite vs. Renewable vs. Non-renewable

• Finite: Limited in quantity.
• Renewable: Can be used repeatedly without depleting the source.
• Non-renewable: Cannot be replenished within a reasonable time frame.

Renewable Energy Advantages and Disadvantages

• Advantages: Generally environmentally friendly, virtually unlimited.
• Disadvantages: Often costly, can be affected by geographic limitations, land use concerns.

Non-Renewable Energy Advantages and Disadvantages

• Advantages: High energy output, often relatively cheap to produce and transport.
• Disadvantages: Finite resource, environmental problems, potential habitat destruction.

Renewable Energy Examples

• Wind
• Solar
• Tidal
• Hydroelectric (HEP)
• Geothermal
• Biomass

Non-Renewable Energy Examples

• Coal
• Oil
• Natural Gas
• Nuclear Energy
• Peat