Lecture Notes: The Rock Cycle

Introduction

• Focus on Learning Objective 8: The Rock Cycle
• Importance of understanding minerals and their role in forming rocks

The Rock Cycle

• A series of processes at Earth's surface or interior that:
  • Form rocks
  • Change rocks
  • Destroy rocks
  • Reform rocks
• Every rock is part of this cycle

Three Rock Types

1. Igneous Rocks

   • Formed by volcanic processes (volcanism)
   • Magma rises to the surface, erupts as lava, and cools to form igneous rocks

2. Sedimentary Rocks

   • Formed from preexisting minerals, rocks, plant, or animal remains
   • Known as "Mother Nature's leftovers"
   • Materials become cemented or combined

3. Metamorphic Rocks

   • Formed by changes due to Earth's surface or interior processes
   • Example: Marble
   • Undergo metamorphosis (change)

The Rock Cycle Process

• Not a linear cycle; can start anywhere
• Example starting with magma:
  • Magma: Undergoes crystallization to form igneous rocks
  • Tectonic Uplift: Brings rocks from the interior to the surface
  • Weathering and Erosion: Breakdown and transport of rocks at the surface
  • Sediments: Formed from weathered particles
  • Burial and Lithification: Sediments become sedimentary rocks
  • Heat and Pressure: Change sedimentary rocks to metamorphic rocks
  • Melting: Turns metamorphic rocks back into magma

Additional Processes

• Igneous rocks can undergo heat and pressure to become metamorphic
• Sedimentary rocks can be reformed or re-cemented
• Any rock type can be derived from any other rock type, including itself

Conclusion

• The rock cycle connects all rock types
• Each type can form from the other two, including itself

Upcoming Chapters

• Chapter 4 & 5: Igneous Rocks
• Chapter 6: Sedimentary Rocks
• Chapter 7: Metamorphic Rocks

Learning Activity

• Assignment on Canvas (not graded) for self-study
• Encouragement to work through the rock cycle diagram for better understanding