Explain the formation of igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Name and give examples of three different rock types found in Ireland. Explain how the rock cycle works. Describe how sediment is turned into rock (lithification). Discuss human interaction with the rock cycle. Using one of the case studies, describe how people exploit rock resources.
Contents
5.1 Igneous rocks 5.2 Sedimentary rocks 5.3 Metamorphic rocks 5.4 The rock cycle
5.5 Human interaction with the rock cycle Case Studies: Tara lead and zinc mines Geothermal energy in Iceland
Questions
Rocks are continually formed, changed, destroyed and reconstructed as part of the rock cycle. They are formed and changed by forces within the earth.
They are destroyed by forces at work on the earth’s surface such as weathering and erosion. Rocks are reconstructed by the deposition of sediments.