The three main types of rocks are Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic. Rocks are categorized into these three types based on their formation processes (Reference: Rocks are divided into three basic types depending on how they were formed: Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic.26-Sept-2022).
Understanding the Three Rock Types
Here's a breakdown of each rock type:
- Igneous Rocks: These rocks form from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava.
- Examples: Granite, basalt, obsidian.
- Sedimentary Rocks: These rocks are formed from the accumulation and cementation of sediments, such as mineral or organic particles.
- Examples: Sandstone, limestone, shale.
- Metamorphic Rocks: These rocks are formed when existing rocks are transformed by heat, pressure, or chemical processes.
- Examples: Marble (from limestone), gneiss (from granite), slate (from shale).
Rock Type Summary
| Rock Type | Formation Process | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Igneous | Cooling and solidification of magma or lava | Granite, Basalt, Obsidian |
| Sedimentary | Accumulation and cementation of sediments | Sandstone, Limestone, Shale |
| Metamorphic | Transformation of existing rocks by heat, pressure, etc. | Marble, Gneiss, Slate |
