Magma flows to the surface and cools to form igneous rock
Rocks are worn down and broken
Broken rocks are carried away
Broken pieces of rock build up in layers along with dead sea creatures and get pressed together to
form sedimentary rock
Magma chamber
Rocks are put under great heat and pressure to form metamorphic rock
2. The rock cycle
1. Magma rises from the mantle. As it does, some may become trapped below the surface and begin to cool very slowly. This slowly cooled molten material is known as intrusive igneous rock. Granite is an example of this type of rock. The magma that reaches the surface flows outwards, and once it hits the open air it begins to cool and forms extrusive igneous rock. Basalt is an example of this type of rock.
2. Rocks on the surface of the earth are worn down over time. Some broken pieces are dropped in layers on the sea floor. Here, they become pressed and cemented together, mixing with dead sea creatures to form sedimentary rock. Examples include sandstone and limestone.
3. Metamorphic rocks are formed when igneous or sedimentary rocks are put under great heat or pressure. This changes the rock into a new, harder rock. Examples include marble and quartzite.
Question Time
1. What are rocks made of? 2. List three uses of rocks in everyday life. 3. Copy and complete this table: