Understanding the Rock Cycle

The rock cycle is Earth's natural, ongoing process, transforming rocks from one type to another over geological time through various geological processes.

Igneous rocks are born from cooled magma or lava. Intrusive rocks form underground, like granite, while extrusive ones, like basalt, solidify on the surface.

Sedimentary rocks develop from accumulated sediment. Over time, layers compact and cement together, creating diverse rocks like sandstone and shale.

Under extreme pressure and heat, both igneous and sedimentary rocks transform into metamorphic variants like marble and schist, without melting entirely.

Weathering breaks down rocks physically and chemically. Erosion transports these particles, aiding in sedimentary rock formation and soil generation.

Subduction zones recycle rocks by dragging them deep below the Earth's surface. Here, rocks may melt into magma, starting the cycle anew.

The rock cycle is a complex system interconnected with Earth's tectonic activities and surface processes, influencing the planet's surface and crust over millennia.

Rocks expand and contract daily, essentially 'breathing', due to temperature fluctuations.