rock cycle worksheet with answers

Lemon

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31-01-2025

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This worksheet provides a thorough understanding of the rock cycle, complete with answers to help you learn and check your comprehension. The rock cycle is a fundamental concept in geology, explaining how the three main rock types—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—are formed, broken down, and transformed over vast periods. Understanding this cycle is key to grasping Earth's dynamic processes.

Section 1: Identifying Rock Types

Instructions: Identify each rock type (igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic) based on its description.

1. Rock formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava).

Answer: Igneous

2. Rock formed from the accumulation and cementation of sediments (like sand, silt, or shells).

Answer: Sedimentary

3. Rock formed from existing rock subjected to heat and pressure, changing its structure and sometimes composition.

Answer: Metamorphic

4. Granite, basalt, and obsidian are examples of this rock type.

Answer: Igneous

5. Sandstone, shale, and limestone are examples of this rock type.

Answer: Sedimentary

6. Marble, slate, and gneiss are examples of this rock type.

Answer: Metamorphic

Section 2: The Rock Cycle Processes

Instructions: Match the process with its description.

Process:

A. Weathering and Erosion B. Melting C. Cooling and Solidification D. Heat and Pressure E. Deposition and Cementation

Description:

1. Breaks down rocks into smaller pieces, transporting them to new locations.

Answer: A. Weathering and Erosion

2. Transforms existing rock through intense heat and pressure.

Answer: D. Heat and Pressure

3. Turns solid rock into molten liquid.

Answer: B. Melting

4. Combines sediments to form sedimentary rock.

Answer: E. Deposition and Cementation

5. Transforms molten rock into solid rock.

Answer: C. Cooling and Solidification

Section 3: Tracing the Rock Cycle

Instructions: Describe the possible pathways a rock can take through the rock cycle, starting with an igneous rock.

Answer: An igneous rock, through weathering and erosion, can break down into sediments. These sediments are then transported and deposited, eventually undergoing compaction and cementation to form sedimentary rock. Alternatively, the igneous rock could be subjected to intense heat and pressure, transforming it into metamorphic rock. Both sedimentary and metamorphic rocks can melt to form magma, which then cools and solidifies to create new igneous rocks. The cycle continues endlessly, with rocks transforming between these three main types.

Section 4: Rock Cycle Diagram

(This section would ideally include a blank diagram of the rock cycle for students to fill in. Provide the completed diagram as the answer.)

Answer: (A labeled diagram should show the three rock types—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—connected by arrows representing the processes of weathering/erosion, melting, cooling/solidification, heat/pressure, and deposition/cementation. The diagram should clearly illustrate the cyclical nature of the process.)

Further Exploration

This worksheet provides a foundational understanding of the rock cycle. To deepen your understanding, explore additional resources such as online videos, interactive simulations, and geological field guides. Consider researching specific examples of rock formations and the geological history of your region. Understanding the rock cycle is a journey into the Earth's dynamic history and processes.