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Rock Cycle
By Swati Singh
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Updated on 25 Apr 2025, 14:25 IST
What is the Rock Cycle?
The Rock Cycle is the natural process by which rocks change from one type to another over time. This cycle explains how igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks are formed and transformed. The Earth’s surface and deep interior are always changing due to heat, pressure, weathering, and erosion. These forces help rocks melt, cool, break down, compact, and transform.
The 3 Types of Rocks in the Rock Cycle
1. Igneous Rocks
These are formed when molten rock (magma or lava) cools and becomes solid.
- Formation Process:
Molten rock cools → Solidifies → Igneous Rock - Example: Granite, basalt
2. Sedimentary Rocks
These rocks form when tiny pieces of rocks, minerals, or organic matter get compacted and cemented together.
- Formation Process:
Weathering → Erosion → Sediment → Compaction and Cementation → Sedimentary Rock - Example: Sandstone, limestone
3. Metamorphic Rocks
These rocks are formed from existing rocks that undergo heat and pressure, but do not melt.
- Formation Process:
Igneous or sedimentary rocks + Heat + Pressure → Metamorphic Rock - Example: Marble, slate
How Does the Rock Cycle Work Step by Step?
Here’s a simple explanation of the rock cycle process:
- Magma cools → Igneous rock
- Igneous rock breaks down → Forms sediments
- Sediments get pressed → Sedimentary rock
- Sedimentary rock gets buried and heated → Metamorphic rock
- Metamorphic rock melts → Magma (cycle repeats)
Rock Cycle for Kids (Easy Summary)
- Rocks can change shape and form.
- The change takes thousands to millions of years.
- Rocks can go back and forth between types.
- It's like recycling — nature's way of reusing rocks.
Rock Cycle Flowchart (in Words)
| Process | Resulting Rock Type |
| Cooling of magma | Igneous rock |
| Compaction of sediments | Sedimentary rock |
| Heat and pressure | Metamorphic rock |
| Melting | Magma |
Extra Learning Ideas
- Try a virtual rock cycle simulator to see how rocks change.
- Draw a rock cycle diagram in your notebook.
- Create a rock cycle science project with clay or paper.
Conclusion
The rock cycle is a never-ending process that shows how rocks are made, broken down, and transformed. By learning the rock cycle, we understand how Earth works and how landscapes form and change over time. Whether it's cooling magma, crushed sediments, or heated rocks deep in the Earth, the rock cycle keeps moving — just like our ever-changing planet. Let me know if you’d like a PDF, slide deck, or printable worksheet version of this content!
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FAQs on Rock Cycle
What is the rock cycle in simple words?
The rock cycle is a continuous process where rocks change from one type to another — like from igneous to sedimentary, or metamorphic to magma — due to natural processes such as heat, pressure, melting, and erosion.
What are the 3 main types of rocks in the rock cycle?
The three main types of rocks are:
Igneous rocks (formed by cooling magma or lava)
Sedimentary rocks (formed from pressed and cemented sediments)
Metamorphic rocks (formed when other rocks are changed by heat and pressure)
How are sedimentary rocks formed in the rock cycle?
Sedimentary rocks are formed when tiny particles of rocks and minerals are broken down by weathering and erosion, then compacted and cemented over time to form layers.
What causes rocks to change in the rock cycle?
Rocks change due to natural forces such as:
Heat (deep inside the Earth)
Pressure (from layers above)
Melting and cooling
Weathering and erosion These processes help transform rocks into different types.
Can a rock go through more than one cycle?
Yes, rocks can go through many changes. For example, an igneous rock can become sedimentary, then turn into metamorphic, melt into magma, and cool again to become igneous. This is why it's called a cycle — it keeps going.
Why is the rock cycle important in geology?
The rock cycle helps geologists understand how Earth’s surface and interior change over time. It shows how rocks are formed, recycled, and transformed, and explains the origin of landforms, minerals, and soil.
What is an example of the rock cycle in real life?
A volcanic eruption produces lava, which cools and forms igneous rock. Over time, weathering breaks it into pieces, which become sediments. These sediments may later form sedimentary rock, and with enough heat and pressure, turn into metamorphic rock.
What is the role of heat and pressure in the rock cycle?
Heat and pressure deep inside the Earth change igneous or sedimentary rocks into metamorphic rocks. These rocks do not melt but their shape, texture, and minerals change under these conditions.
How long does the rock cycle take?
The rock cycle takes thousands to millions of years. Changes in rocks happen slowly, often deep inside the Earth or over long geological time periods.
Is there a diagram to help explain the rock cycle?
Yes, a rock cycle diagram shows how the three main types of rocks change from one to another through processes like cooling, erosion, compaction, heat, and melting. You can find rock cycle diagrams in science textbooks or online educational tools.