The Rock Cycle Diagrams to Print

A handful of rock cycle diagrams are available in high quality and definition! Study or teach the cycle of rock by using the right materials. First and foremost, there are three main types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Each of these types of rocks are formed in different ways and each type of rock can be changed into each of the other types of rock. Each group contains a collection of rock types that differ from each other on the basis of the size, shape, and arrangement of mineral grains. Geologists call this process the Rock Cycle. Essentially the rock cycle is the process that makes and recycles rocks. So, to know further about the cycle of the rock, look at the following the rock cycle diagram.

the rock cycle diagram detailed
image via laurentlazard.com

The rock cycle diagram is an illustration that is used to explain how the three rock types are related to each other and how Earth processes change a rock from one type to another through geologic time. Plate tectonic movement is responsible for the recycling of rock materials and is the driving force of the rock cycle. Most rocks on earth began as igneous rocks. These kinds of rocks are formed from magma. Magma cools and solidifies into rock. When igneous rocks are exposed on the surface, time and weather break the rock down into smaller and smaller pieces. This process is called weathering and erosion. Then, wind and water carry the smaller pieces of igneous rocks into piles called sediment beds which will get buried and eventually become cemented together to form a new type of rock called a sedimentary rock.

the rock cycle diagram earth
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the rock cycle diagram example
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the rock cycle diagram magma
image via ecgoldkey.us

Based on the diagrams you can observe how the cycle works. The sedimentary rock can be exposed at the surface, then it will be eroded away and eventually changed into new sedimentary rock. However, if the sedimentary rock gets buried deep in the Earth, heat and pressure essentially bake the rock, changing it into something new. This process is called metamorphosis, and the new rock is called a metamorphic rock. That’s how the cycle goes on.

the rock cycle diagram metamorphic
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the rock cycle diagram new
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the rock cycle diagram sediment
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In brief, the rock cycle is the name for the processes that forms and recycles the different types or rocks on our planet. Save and print these diagrams to assist you in understanding how the cycle of the rock is and don’t forget to share this post to your social media!