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The rock cycle is the natural process in which rocks transform from one rock type into another rock type over time, a type of natural recycling.

Igneous rocks, which are formed from magma cooling underground, or lava above ground are formed from previous igneous, metamorphic, or sedimentary rocks which have become melted, usually as a result of plate collision and subduction.------->

When these igneous rocks are exposed to weathering and erosion, they break down into smaller particles that are transported by wind and water to a place of deposition, where they can form into sedimentary rock strata, through a process of lithification, where excess water is squeezed out by overburden pressures and the particles are cemented together by various minerals precipitating out of solution. Igneous and metamorphic rocks can both be turned into sedimentary rocks in this way.------->

Igneous and sedimentary rocks can also be changed by heat and/or pressure into metamorphic rocks, by transforming their existing mineral structures into new minerals or realigning the existing minerals. There are different degrees of metamorphism, so even an existing metamorphic rock can become a different metamorphic rock. -------->

If these metamorphic rocks are melted, then solidify, they become igneous rocks, and the cycle starts all over again.

The rock cycle is largely driven by lithospheric plate movements which cause subduction and uplift, also by climatic conditions and the associated erosional elements.

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Related Questions

What 4 words best describe the rock cycle?

What four words best describe the rock cycle?


Describe how each type of rock changes as it moves through the rock cycle?

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Scientists use rock cycle to describe what process?

The rock cycle is how one type of rock can be changed into another type of rock.


What the rock cycle describe?

The rock cycle describes how rocks are formed, and how they change to sedimentary rock, to metamorphic rock, to magma, to igneous rock, to sediment, and back to sedimentary rock.


What do the scientists use the rock cycle to describe?

The changes and interactions of various rock types in a grand scale of natural recycling.


Describe the changes that occur in the rock cycle?

In the rock cycle, rocks change into differant types of rocks over time. For example, igneous rocks might break into sediments that form sedimentary rocks.


Does the rock cycle have to start from the sedimentary rock?

No, the rock cycle does not have to start from the sedimentary rock


What does the rock cycle and water cycle have in common?

The rock cycle and water cycle both are natural.


What is the rock cycle including descriptions of how one type of rock can change into another type?

It is called the Rock Cycle.


Describe the role of external processes in the rock cycle?

External processes in the rock cycle, such as weathering, erosion, and deposition, break down and transport rocks, leading to their transformation into sedimentary rocks. These processes are essential in recycling and reworking the Earth's crust, playing a crucial role in the continuous formation and alteration of rocks within the rock cycle.


What is beginning of the rock cycle?

there is no beginning or end of the rock cycle


What is is rock cycle?

The Rock Cycle contributes to the formation of rocks : ~ )