Basic Rock Types Flashcards
Name the three basic rock types.
Igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic.
Two examples of igneous rocks
Basalt and granite
Two examples of sedimentary rocks
Limestone and sandstone
Two examples of metamorphic rocks
Slate and marble
State briefly what igneous rocks are formed from
Magma underground
What is magma above ground called?
Lava
Explain the formation of basalt
Magma above ground is called lava, which cools quickly to form tiny crystals called extrusive igneous rock.
What is magma?
Melted rock
Explain the formation of granite.
Magma underground cools slowly to form large crystals called intrusive igneous rock.
What is limestone formed from?
Dead sea creatures
What is sandstone formed from?
Sand particles
Explain the formation of sedimentary rocks.
- Small particles of rock or dead sea creatures are deposited on the sea floor as sediment.
- The sediment builds up in layers.
- The layers are compressed and compacted under their own weight, turning into rock.
Explain how metamorphic rocks are formed.
They are formed from other igneous and sedimentary rocks which are changed by heat or pressure.
Limestone under pressure changes to what?
Marble
When heated, mudstone changes to what?
Slate