The Rock Cycle
By: Leigha Bennet & Carson Davis
What is the Rock Cycle?
The rock cycle is a basic concept in geology that describes the dynamic transitions through geologic time among the three main rock typer: sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous.
Sedimentary
Sedimentary rocks are formed from particles of sand, shells, pebbles and other fragments of material. Gradually the sediment accumulates in layers and over a long period of time, hardens into rock.
Igneous Rock
Igneous rocks are formed by magma or lava when it cools and hardens. When lava cools very quickly no crystals form and the rock appears shiny, and glass like. When gas bubbles are trapped in the rock during the cooling process, it leaves tiny holes ad spaces in the rock.
Metamorphic Rock
Metamorphic rocks are formed under the surface of the earth. Metamorphosis (change) occurs due to intense heat and pressure. Rocks usually have ribbonlike layers and shiny crystals over time.
How do rocks change from one shape to another?
Rocks change by one of three things: Melting and cooling to form a rock, immense pressure to morph the shape, and erosion hardening into one unit.