Rock Cycle Process

Rock Cycle

The rock cycle is the process by which rocks are formed, transformed, and destroyed. It is a continuous process that has been occurring for billions of years.

Stages of the Rock Cycle:

1. Igneous Rock Formation:
   • Magma cools and solidifies to form igneous rocks
   • Can occur beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive) or on the surface (extrusive)
2. Weathering and Erosion:
   • Rocks are broken down into smaller pieces through weathering (chemical and physical processes)
   • Sediments are transported away from their source through erosion
3. Sedimentation:
   • Sediments are deposited in a new location, such as a river delta or ocean basin
   • Over time, sediments are compressed and cemented together to form sedimentary rocks
4. Metamorphism:
   • Existing rocks are transformed into new rocks through heat, pressure, and chemical reactions
   • Can occur due to tectonic forces, such as mountain building or plate convergence
5. Melting and Magma Formation:
   • Rocks are heated to the point of melting, forming magma
   • Magma can rise to the surface to form igneous rocks, or remain beneath the surface to form plutonic rocks

Processes that Drive the Rock Cycle:

• Plate Tectonics:
  • Movement of the Earth's lithosphere (outer layer) drives the rock cycle
  • Processes such as subduction, collision, and rifting shape the Earth's surface
• Geothermal Gradient:
  • Increase in temperature with depth drives metamorphism and magma formation
  • Influences the rate of geological processes, such as weathering and sedimentation

Key Concepts:

• Rock Types:
  • Igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks are the three main types of rocks
  • Each type has distinct characteristics and formation processes
• Geological Time Scale:
  • The rock cycle occurs over millions of years
  • Understanding the geological time scale is essential for interpreting the Earth's history

Pelajari proses pembentukan, transformasi, dan penghancuran batuan melalui tahap-tahap rock cycle, termasuk pembentukan batuan beku, pelapukan dan erosi, sedimentasi, metamorfisme, dan pembentukan magma. Quiz ini membantu Anda memahami konsep-konsep kunci seperti jenis batuan, skala waktu geologi, dan proses yang menggerakkan rock cycle.