Rock cycle

The rock cycle is a fundamental concept in geology that describes the dynamic transitions through geologic time between the three main rock types: sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous. As the diagram to the right illustrates, each type of rock is altered or destroyed when it is forced out of its equilibrium conditions. A rock such as basalt, may break down and dissolve when exposed to the atmosphere, or melt as it is subducted under a continent. Due to the driving forces of the rock cycle, plate tectonics and the water cycle, rocks do not remain in equilibrium and are forced to change as they encounter new environments.

Related Topics:
Geology - Geologic time - Rock - Sedimentary - Metamorphic - Igneous - Basalt - Atmosphere - Subducted - Continent - Plate tectonics - Water cycle

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