Take the Rock Types Quiz: Learn the Three Major Types of Rocks

What are rocks defined as?

Which process leads to the formation of igneous rocks?

What is the name of the liquid rock beneath the Earth's crust?

What type of rock is associated with volcanic eruptions?

Which type of rock is formed by the compaction of sediments?

What distinguishes intrusive igneous rocks from extrusive igneous rocks?

What is a characteristic feature of diorite, which makes it suitable for use in the construction of roads and parking areas?

How are chemical sedimentary rocks formed?

What distinguishes clastic sedimentary rocks from organic sedimentary rocks?

What is the primary difference between intrusive igneous rocks and extrusive igneous rocks?

What environmental factors can lead to the formation of metamorphic rocks?

What distinguishes foliated metamorphic rocks from unfoliated metamorphic rocks?

In which type of metamorphism is non-foliated rock typically formed?

Which metamorphic rock is used in making monuments and sculptures?

What does the rock cycle describe?

Rocks and Their Formation

Rocks are defined as naturally occurring solid masses of mineral material.
Igneous rocks are formed through the process of solidification of magma or lava.
Magma is the liquid rock beneath the Earth's crust.

Igneous Rocks

Volcanic eruptions are associated with extrusive igneous rocks.
Intrusive igneous rocks are formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth's surface, whereas extrusive igneous rocks are formed when lava cools and solidifies on the Earth's surface.
Diorite is a type of intrusive igneous rock that is suitable for use in the construction of roads and parking areas due to its durability.

Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks can be formed through the compaction of sediments.
Chemical sedimentary rocks are formed through chemical precipitation, such as when minerals are deposited from a solution.
Clastic sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of clastic sediments, whereas organic sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of organic matter.

Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks are formed when rocks are subjected to high temperatures and pressures, causing changes in their mineral composition and structure.
Environmental factors such as heat, pressure, and chemicals can lead to the formation of metamorphic rocks.
Foliated metamorphic rocks have a layered or banded structure, whereas unfoliated metamorphic rocks do not have a layered structure.
Non-foliated rocks are typically formed through contact metamorphism, which occurs when rocks are exposed to high temperatures and pressures due to the presence of magma or other heat sources.
Marble is a metamorphic rock that is often used in making monuments and sculptures.

Rock Cycle

The rock cycle describes the continuous process of formation, transformation, and destruction of rocks.

Test your knowledge about the three major types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Learn about their formation processes and distinctive characteristics.