Rocks

Question 1

What are two types of sedimentary rocks

Answer 1

Limestone
Sandstone

Question 2

Two types of igneous rocks

Answer 2

Basalt
Granite

Question 3

Two types of metamorphic rocks

Answer 3

Marble
Quartzite (Limestone)

Question 4

Describe one type of an igneous rock

Answer 4

Basalt forms when lava emerges from a volcano or a fissure.
When the lava cools it is then exposed to elements (wind, rain, water and air).
It then solidifies making microscopic crystals.
Baslalt is an extrusive igneous rock having formed on the earths surface.
It is found in the Giants Causeway Co. Antrim.

Question 5

Describe one sedimentary rock

Answer 5

Limestone is formed when when layers of dead plants and animals build up on ocean floors or lake beds, this means the it is organic.
Over millions of years the lower layers become compressed due to the weight above.
This pressure compacts the layers and minerals together like calcite acted as cement building the strata together.
Fossils can be found in Limestone.
The Burren in Co. Clare is a limestone region.
Limestone is used in the construction industry, mainly for making cement

Question 6

Describe one metamorphic rock

Answer 6

Marble is formed when Limestone when undergoes great heat and pressure.
The changes from heat alone is called Thermal Metamorphism.
Heat from the magma can reach up to temperatures such as 2000’C which changes the makeup of the rock that it comes in contact with.
Pure marble is white, while coloured varieties result from impurities.
Green Marble is found in the Connemara Co. Galway.
Marble is usually used for countertops and bathroom tiles in houses

Question 7

In metamorphic rocks what do the rocks turn into with great heat?

Answer 7

They turn into
Limestone ——> Marble
Sandstone ——> Quartzite