How do igneous sedimentary and metamorphic rock differ?

Answer 1

All three rocked differ most importantly in how they were formed. Igneous rock is formed in volcanic environments. Heated magma exits volcanoes, cools off rapidly or slowly (which also effects the type of rock produced) and forms igneous rock. Its appearance will be without organic particles or any stratification, and its grain is typically fine. Sedimentary rock is formed in layers referred to as stratification, as moving water carries particles ranging in size as well as organic material and deposits them on the ground floor depending on the speed of the water that is travelling. Its grains can range from fine to coarse and its colors are usually reddish due to iron content. Metamorphic rock is formed from the previous two types undergoing a process of compression. The molecular structures change under the heat and pressure of metamorphosis, thereby changing the color and properties of the rock. This process can be exemplified by the existence of coal, which is organic sediment that has been subjected to a metamorphic environment. It will typically be much more dense and usually has distorted layers and darker colors due to lack of oxygen.