Chapter 12.1
Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic Rocks: Discover How Earth's Rocks Form
You will explore how Earth's three main rock types form through cooling, layering, and pressure and learn to identify real examples like granite, limestone, and marble.
What You'll Learn
You will identify three rock types by how they form.
You can recognize igneous rocks by their crystal size differences.
You will discover sedimentary rocks preserve fossils in visible layers.
You learn metamorphic rocks form under extreme heat and pressure.
What You'll Practice
1
You will identify rock types using their key defining characteristics.
2
You can explain how compaction and cementation form sedimentary rock.
3
You will compare intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks by crystal size.
Why This Matters
Understanding the three rock types gives you the foundation to explain how Earth's surface forms, changes, and preserves the history of life through fossils and geological processes.
This Unit Includes
Practice exercises
Learning resources
Skills
Rock Types
Igneous Rocks
Sedimentary Rocks
Metamorphic Rocks
Rock Cycle
