Rocks

Question 1

What is the study of rocks called?

Answer 1

Geology

Question 2

What are the 3 categories of rock?

Answer 2

• Igneous rock
• Sedimentary rock
• Metamorphic rock

Question 3

Describe the basalt rock

Answer 3

• Forms at volcanoes and fissure eruptions
• Dark black/brown
• No crystals visible due to rapid cooling
• Used for road chippings
• Found in the ‘Giants Causeway’, Co. Antrim

Question 4

Describe granite

Answer 4

• Magma pushes into the crust but doesn’t reach the surface
• Pale grey/pink
• Large crystals visible due to slow cooling
• Used for worktops
• Found in Wicklow mountains and Mourne mountains (Co. Down)

Question 5

Name 2 examples of an Igneous rock

Answer 5

Basalt and granite

Question 6

Name 2 examples of a sedimentary rock

Answer 6

Limestone and sandstone

Question 7

Name 2 examples of metamorphic rocks

Answer 7

Marble and quartzite

Question 8

Describe the igneous rock formation

Answer 8

Basalt is formed when lava emerges from a volcano or fissure. The lava cools quickly as it is exposed to the elements (air, wind, rain, water). It then solidifies forming microscopic (tiny) crystals. It is found in the Giants Causeway Co. Antrim, and is used as a base in road construction

Question 9

Describe the sedimentary rock formation

Answer 9

Limestone is formed when dead plants and animals/fossils build up on the ocean floor, meaning it’s organic. Over millions of years the lower layers became compressed because of the weight of the sea layers above. This pressure compacted the layers and minerals together and acted like cement to bind the strata together. The Burren in Co. Clare is a limestone region. Limestone is used in the construction industry