Rocks Flashcards
Lithosphere
the outermost layer of the Earth, includes the crust and uppermost part of the mantle
Magma
Is liquid rock but underneath the Earth’s crust
Lava
Liquid rock but on the surface on the Earth’s crust
Native element
elements found uncombined in the Earth’s crust
Crystals
geometrically-shaped substance made up of atoms and molecules arranged in one of seven different shapes. The elements that make up a crystal and the conditions present during the crystal’s growth determine the arrangement of atoms and molecules and the shape of the crystals.
Mohs scale
a scale of hardness used in classifying minerals. It runs from 1 to 10 using a series of reference minerals, and a position on the scale depends on the ability to scratch minerals rated lower.
Igneous rock
rocks that form from the cooling of lava or magma as it is thrown through the air from a volcanic eruption
Extrusive igneous rock
rock that forms when lava cools above the Earth’s surface
Intrusive igneous rock
rock that forms when magma cools below the Earth’s surface
Batholith
intrusive rock mass that measures more than 100 kilometres across
Erosion
the process of eroding or being eroded by wind, water, or other natural agents.
Sediment
matter that settles to the bottom of a liquid
Floodplain
flat, open land beside a river where sediments are deposited during floods
Sedimentary rock
Rock that has formed through the deposition and solidification of sediment, especially sediment transported by water (rivers, lakes, and oceans), ice ( glaciers ), and wind. Sedimentary rocks are often deposited in layers, and frequently contain fossils. Note : Limestone and shale are common sedimentary rocks.
Coal
a combustible black or dark brown rock consisting mainly of carbonized plant matter, found mainly in underground deposits and widely used as fuel.