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Earth & space science · Grades 5–9

Rocks, minerals and geological processes

Read the rock cycle as possible pathways, not one compulsory loop.

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Learn the idea

Rock

A rock is an aggregate of minerals or mineral-like material; a mineral has a defined natural composition and structure within its definition.

Processes

Cooling, compaction, cementation, heat, pressure and weathering can change geological materials.

Cycle

A rock-cycle diagram presents possible transformations, not a fixed travel schedule.

Time

Processes occur over different time scales; evidence determines an interpretation.

Worked examples

What process forms an igneous rock in the basic model?

Igneous rock forms from magma or lava cooling.

Cooling and solidification of molten material.

What can transform existing rock without fully melting it?

Metamorphic change occurs under changed conditions without complete melting in the basic distinction.

Heat and pressure during metamorphism.

Check your understanding

  1. Must every rock pass through the same cycle steps in the same order?

    1. Yes, exactly once each.
    2. Only if it contains quartz.
    3. No.

  2. A fictional sediment layer is 2 cm thicker each year for 5 years under a stated model. What added thickness is predicted?

  3. Why should a simple layer-rate calculation not be treated as a universal geological clock?

Answers and marking notes

Answers and marking notes
  1. No.

    The cycle shows alternative pathways.

  2. 10 cm

    2 × 5 = 10 cm; real deposition need not be constant.

  3. Deposition, erosion and compaction can vary over time.

    The rate assumption is limited.

Further reading and review references

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Independent educational review required. Grade bands are approximate; these are not officially aligned curricula.