Igneous Rock Metamorphism (heat, intense pressure) Magma Weathering transport deposition Lithification compaction cementation) Metamorphic Rock Sediment Cooling crystallization Heating.crystallization Melting Sedimentary
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct sequence of processes that transform one type of rock into another, as listed, can be linked to the rock cycle. The rock cycle describes the continuous transformation of rock types over geological time.
Sequence Explanation:
- Igneous Rock:
- Cooling and Crystallization: Igneous rocks form from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. The minerals in the molten rock crystallize as it cools, forming igneous rocks like granite or basalt.
- Magma:
- Melting: When igneous rocks undergo high temperatures, they can melt back into magma. This can happen due to subduction or volcanic activity.
- Metamorphism:
- Heat and Intense Pressure: Metamorphic rocks are formed when pre-existing rocks (either igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks) undergo heat and intense pressure deep within the Earth. This process alters the mineral composition, texture, and structure of the rock. For example, shale may transform into slate under heat and pressure.
- Metamorphic Rock:
- Heating and Crystallization: As the metamorphosed rock is subjected to additional heat, the minerals may crystallize further, resulting in different metamorphic textures or the formation of new minerals.
- Weathering:
- Physical and Chemical Breakdown: Over time, rocks at the Earth’s surface break down through weathering. Weathering can be mechanical (breaking into smaller pieces) or chemical (altering the chemical structure of minerals).
- Transport and Deposition:
- The weathered particles (sediments) are transported by natural forces such as wind, water, or ice. These sediments are deposited in various environments, forming layers in rivers, oceans, or deserts.
- Sedimentary Rock:
- Lithification: Once the sediment accumulates, it undergoes lithification, which includes compaction and cementation. The layers of sediment are compressed and bound together by minerals precipitating from water, forming sedimentary rocks like sandstone, shale, or limestone.
- Compaction and Cementation:
- Compaction: Sediments are compressed by the weight of overlying layers, reducing pore space and forcing the particles closer together.
- Cementation: Dissolved minerals in the water precipitate and glue the sediment particles together, solidifying them into rock.
This cycle shows how rocks are constantly changing and transforming due to geological forces.
I will now generate an image of the rock cycle for you.
Here is the image of the rock cycle, showing the processes and transformations between igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It visually represents the various stages such as weathering, transport, deposition, and lithification, as well as the transitions between rock types through processes like melting, cooling, heat, and pressure.
