The Rock Cycle

THE ROCK CYCLE

by Anton Antonio

March 19, 2015

Environmental science is multidisciplinary in character and, therefore, includes geology.  One of the important geologic processes is the Rock Cycle.  The Rock Cycle is a basic concept in geology that describes the dynamic transitions, through geologic time, among the three major existing rock types --- sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rocks.  These transitory stages either alter or destroy rocks as they are forced out of their equilibrium conditions.  This cycle is the slowest of the earth’s cyclic processes.

The following are basic descriptions of the types of rocks that are products of the geologic process called the rock cycle:

1. IGNEOUS ROCKS are formed when molten rock materials (magma) are forced up from the earth’s interior.  The driving forces for changes in rock composition and form are the water cycle and plate tectonics.  After magma cools and solidifies, rocks are produced.  These rocks are important since they carry with them mineral resources for use in different applications by man and consumption of both plants and animals.
2. SEDIMENTARY ROCKS are formed from sediments through the process of erosion and compaction.  Some sedimentary rocks, like limestone, are considered important natural resources with so many useful applications.
3. METAMORPHIC ROCKS are the resultant products when a pre-existing rock is subjected to high pressures of compaction, high temperatures, chemically active fluids and substances, or a combination of these agents.  Common examples of metamorphic rocks are coal, slate and marble which have important human use and application.

The accompanying image is a good infographic for the Rock Cycle.

Just my little thoughts…

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