Rocks In The Earth Crust

Rocks are solid, naturally occurring, inorganic substances that form the Earth’s crust. They are composed of minerals, which are naturally occurring, solid, inorganic substances with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure. Rocks can be classified into three main types based on their mode of formation: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

Igneous Rocks

Igneous rocks are formed when magma or lava cools and solidifies. Magma is molten rock that is found beneath the Earth’s surface, while lava is molten rock that has erupted onto the Earth’s surface. Igneous rocks are classified into two main types: intrusive and extrusive.

• Intrusive igneous rocks are formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth’s surface. These rocks are typically coarse-grained because the magma has time to cool slowly. Examples of intrusive igneous rocks include granite, diorite, and gabbro.
• Extrusive igneous rocks are formed when lava cools and solidifies on the Earth’s surface. These rocks are typically fine-grained because the lava cools quickly. Examples of extrusive igneous rocks include basalt, andesite, and rhyolite.

Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks are formed when sediments, which are bits of rock, minerals, and organic matter, are deposited and compacted over time. Sedimentary rocks are classified into two main types: clastic and chemical.

• Clastic sedimentary rocks are formed when sediments are deposited and compacted. These rocks are typically composed of fragments of other rocks and minerals. Examples of clastic sedimentary rocks include sandstone, shale, and conglomerate.
• Chemical sedimentary rocks are formed when minerals precipitate out of water. These rocks are typically composed of a single mineral. Examples of chemical sedimentary rocks include limestone, dolomite, and gypsum.

Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks are changed by heat, pressure, or chemical reactions. Metamorphic rocks are classified into two main types: foliated and non-foliated.

• Foliated metamorphic rocks have a layered or banded appearance. This is because the minerals in the rock have been aligned by heat and pressure. Examples of foliated metamorphic rocks include slate, schist, and gneiss.
• Non-foliated metamorphic rocks do not have a layered or banded appearance. This is because the minerals in the rock have not been aligned by heat and pressure. Examples of non-foliated metamorphic rocks include marble, quartzite, and hornfels.

The Rock Cycle

The rock cycle is a continuous process that describes the transformation of rocks from one type to another. The rock cycle is driven by heat, pressure, and chemical reactions.

• Igneous rocks can be transformed into sedimentary rocks by weathering and erosion.
• Sedimentary rocks can be transformed into metamorphic rocks by heat and pressure.
• Metamorphic rocks can be transformed into igneous rocks by melting.

The rock cycle is an important part of the Earth’s system because it helps to recycle materials and maintain the Earth’s equilibrium.

Classification of Rocks

Rocks are classified into three main types based on their mode of formation: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Each type has its own unique characteristics and properties.

Igneous Rocks

Igneous rocks are formed when magma or lava cools and solidifies. Magma is molten rock that is found beneath the Earth’s surface, while lava is molten rock that has erupted onto the Earth’s surface. Igneous rocks are classified based on their texture and composition.

Types of Igneous Rocks

• Intrusive igneous rocks: These rocks are formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth’s surface. They are typically coarse-grained because the magma has time to cool slowly. Examples of intrusive igneous rocks include granite, diorite, and gabbro.
• Extrusive igneous rocks: These rocks are formed when lava cools and solidifies on the Earth’s surface. They are typically fine-grained because the lava cools quickly. Examples of extrusive igneous rocks include basalt, andesite, and rhyolite.

Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks are formed when sediments, such as sand, mud, and gravel, are deposited and compacted over time. Sediments are bits of rock, minerals, or organic matter that have been transported by wind, water, or ice. Sedimentary rocks are classified based on their texture, composition, and the way they were deposited.

Types of Sedimentary Rocks

• Clastic sedimentary rocks: These rocks are formed when sediments are deposited and compacted. They are classified based on the size of the sediments. Examples of clastic sedimentary rocks include conglomerate, sandstone, and shale.
• Chemical sedimentary rocks: These rocks are formed when minerals precipitate out of water. Examples of chemical sedimentary rocks include limestone, dolomite, and gypsum.
• Organic sedimentary rocks: These rocks are formed when the remains of plants and animals are deposited and compacted. Examples of organic sedimentary rocks include coal and oil shale.

Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks are changed by heat, pressure, or chemical reactions. Metamorphic rocks are classified based on their texture, composition, and the type of metamorphism that occurred.

Types of Metamorphic Rocks

• Foliated metamorphic rocks: These rocks have a layered or banded appearance. Examples of foliated metamorphic rocks include slate, schist, and gneiss.
• Non-foliated metamorphic rocks: These rocks do not have a layered or banded appearance. Examples of non-foliated metamorphic rocks include marble, quartzite, and hornfels.

Conclusion

Rocks are classified into three main types based on their mode of formation: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Each type of rock has its own unique characteristics and properties. By understanding the different types of rocks, we can learn more about the Earth’s history and processes.

Igneous Rocks

Igneous rocks are formed when magma or lava cools and solidifies. Magma is molten rock that is found beneath the Earth’s surface, while lava is molten rock that has erupted onto the Earth’s surface.

Igneous rocks are classified according to their texture, composition, and origin.

Texture

The texture of an igneous rock is determined by the size and shape of its crystals. Igneous rocks can have a variety of textures, including:

• Aphanitic: Rocks with a fine-grained texture, meaning that the crystals are too small to be seen with the naked eye.
• Phaneritic: Rocks with a coarse-grained texture, meaning that the crystals are large enough to be seen with the naked eye.
• Porphyritic: Rocks with a mixture of large and small crystals.
• Glassy: Rocks that have a non-crystalline texture, meaning that they do not contain any crystals.

Composition

The composition of an igneous rock is determined by the minerals that it contains. Igneous rocks can be classified into three main groups based on their composition:

• Felsic: Rocks that are rich in feldspar and quartz.
• Mafic: Rocks that are rich in magnesium and iron.
• Ultramafic: Rocks that are rich in olivine and pyroxene.

Origin

Igneous rocks can be formed in a variety of settings, including:

• Volcanic: Rocks that are formed when lava cools and solidifies on the Earth’s surface.
• Plutonic: Rocks that are formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth’s surface.
• Hypabyssal: Rocks that are formed when magma cools and solidifies in between the Earth’s surface and the subsurface.

Examples of Igneous Rocks

Some common examples of igneous rocks include:

• Granite: A felsic igneous rock that is formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth’s surface.
• Basalt: A mafic igneous rock that is formed when lava cools and solidifies on the Earth’s surface.
• Gabbro: A mafic igneous rock that is formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth’s surface.
• Peridotite: An ultramafic igneous rock that is formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth’s surface.
• Obsidian: A glassy igneous rock that is formed when lava cools and solidifies very quickly.

Importance of Igneous Rocks

Igneous rocks are important because they provide information about the Earth’s interior, the processes that occur beneath the Earth’s surface, and the history of the Earth. Igneous rocks are also used in a variety of applications, including:

• Building materials: Igneous rocks are used as building materials because they are strong and durable.
• Road construction: Igneous rocks are used in road construction because they are resistant to wear and tear.
• Jewelry: Igneous rocks are used in jewelry because they are beautiful and durable.
• Art: Igneous rocks are used in art because they can be carved into beautiful sculptures.

Classification of Igneous Rocks

Igneous rocks are formed when magma or lava cools and solidifies. They are classified based on their texture, composition, and mode of occurrence.

Texture

The texture of an igneous rock refers to the size, shape, and arrangement of its mineral crystals. Igneous rocks can have a variety of textures, including:

• Aphanitic: Rocks with a very fine-grained texture, where individual mineral crystals are not visible to the naked eye.
• Phaneritic: Rocks with a coarse-grained texture, where individual mineral crystals are visible to the naked eye.
• Porphyritic: Rocks with a mixture of fine-grained and coarse-grained crystals.
• Glassy: Rocks that have a non-crystalline texture, formed when magma cools very quickly.

Composition

The composition of an igneous rock refers to the minerals that it contains. Igneous rocks can be classified into three main groups based on their composition:

• Felsic: Rocks that are rich in feldspar and quartz.
• Mafic: Rocks that are rich in magnesium and iron.
• Ultramafic: Rocks that are almost entirely composed of magnesium and iron.

Mode of Occurrence

The mode of occurrence of an igneous rock refers to the way in which it was formed. Igneous rocks can be classified into two main groups based on their mode of occurrence:

• Intrusive: Rocks that are formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth’s surface.
• Extrusive: Rocks that are formed when lava cools and solidifies on the Earth’s surface.

Classification of Igneous Rocks

Based on the above criteria, igneous rocks can be classified into a variety of different types. Some of the most common types of igneous rocks include:

• Granite: A felsic intrusive rock that is composed of feldspar, quartz, and mica.
• Diorite: A mafic intrusive rock that is composed of feldspar, hornblende, and pyroxene.
• Gabbro: An ultramafic intrusive rock that is composed of feldspar, pyroxene, and olivine.
• Basalt: A mafic extrusive rock that is composed of feldspar, pyroxene, and olivine.
• Rhyolite: A felsic extrusive rock that is composed of feldspar, quartz, and mica.
• Obsidian: A glassy extrusive rock that is composed of feldspar, quartz, and mica.

Conclusion

Igneous rocks are a diverse group of rocks that are formed when magma or lava cools and solidifies. They can be classified based on their texture, composition, and mode of occurrence.

Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks are formed by the accumulation and cementation of sediments, which are bits of rock, minerals, and organic matter that have been transported by wind, water, or ice. Sedimentary rocks are the most common type of rock on Earth, covering about 75% of the planet’s surface.

Formation of Sedimentary Rocks

The process of sedimentary rock formation begins with the weathering and erosion of existing rocks. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including wind, water, ice, and biological activity. The weathered material is then transported to a new location, where it is deposited and begins to accumulate.

Over time, the accumulated sediment is compacted and cemented together by minerals such as calcite, quartz, and iron oxide. This process is called lithification. The resulting sedimentary rock is a record of the environment in which it was formed, including the climate, the type of sediment, and the presence of life.

Types of Sedimentary Rocks

There are three main types of sedimentary rocks:

• Clastic sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of rock fragments, such as sand, gravel, and mud. These rocks are classified according to the size of the fragments they contain.
• Chemical sedimentary rocks are formed from the precipitation of minerals from water. These rocks include limestone, dolomite, and gypsum.
• Organic sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of plant and animal remains. These rocks include coal, oil shale, and limestone.

Uses of Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks are used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Building materials: Sedimentary rocks such as sandstone, limestone, and granite are used to build houses, bridges, and other structures.
• Road construction: Sedimentary rocks such as gravel and crushed stone are used to build roads and highways.
• Agriculture: Sedimentary rocks such as limestone and dolomite are used to improve soil fertility.
• Industrial materials: Sedimentary rocks such as sand, gravel, and clay are used in a variety of industrial processes, such as glassmaking, cement production, and pottery.

Conclusion

Sedimentary rocks are an important part of the Earth’s crust. They provide a record of the planet’s history and are used for a variety of purposes.

Classification of Sedimentary Rocks:

Sedimentary rocks are formed by the accumulation and cementation of sediments. They are classified based on their texture, composition, and mode of formation.

Texture

The texture of a sedimentary rock refers to the size, shape, and arrangement of its particles. Some common textures include:

• Clastic: Clastic rocks are composed of fragments of pre-existing rocks. The size of the fragments can vary from clay-sized particles to boulders.
• Chemical: Chemical rocks are formed by the precipitation of minerals from solution. These rocks can be crystalline or amorphous.
• Organic: Organic rocks are formed from the remains of plants and animals. These rocks can be composed of a variety of materials, including coal, limestone, and chert.

Composition

The composition of a sedimentary rock refers to the minerals that make up the rock. Some common minerals found in sedimentary rocks include:

• Quartz: Quartz is a common mineral in many types of sedimentary rocks. It is a hard, durable mineral that is resistant to weathering.
• Feldspar: Feldspar is another common mineral in sedimentary rocks. It is a group of minerals that are composed of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen.
• Calcite: Calcite is a carbonate mineral that is found in many types of sedimentary rocks. It is a soft mineral that is easily weathered.
• Dolomite: Dolomite is a carbonate mineral that is similar to calcite. It is a harder mineral that is more resistant to weathering.

Mode of Formation

Sedimentary rocks are formed by a variety of processes, including:

• Erosion: Erosion is the process of wearing away of the Earth’s surface by water, wind, ice, and other agents. The eroded material is transported to a new location, where it can be deposited and eventually become sedimentary rock.
• Deposition: Deposition is the process of settling out of sediment from water or wind. The sediment is deposited in layers, which can eventually become sedimentary rock.
• Compaction: Compaction is the process of pressing together of sediment under its own weight. This process can cause the sediment to become denser and harder.
• Cementation: Cementation is the process of binding together of sediment by minerals. This process can occur by the precipitation of minerals from solution or by the growth of crystals between the sediment particles.

Classification of Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks are classified into three main groups based on their mode of formation:

• Clastic sedimentary rocks: Clastic sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and cementation of sediments that have been transported by water, wind, or ice. These rocks include sandstone, shale, and conglomerate.
• Chemical sedimentary rocks: Chemical sedimentary rocks are formed by the precipitation of minerals from solution. These rocks include limestone, dolomite, and chert.
• Organic sedimentary rocks: Organic sedimentary rocks are formed from the remains of plants and animals. These rocks include coal, oil shale, and limestone.

Conclusion

Sedimentary rocks are an important part of the Earth’s crust. They provide a record of the Earth’s history and can be used to study the evolution of life, the climate, and the Earth’s surface.

Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks undergo changes in their mineral composition, texture, or both due to intense heat, pressure, and/or chemical reactions. These changes occur when rocks are subjected to extreme conditions within the Earth’s crust, often during mountain-building events or when rocks come into contact with hot magma.

Types of Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks are classified based on their texture, mineralogy, and the type of metamorphic processes they have undergone. Some common types of metamorphic rocks include:

• Foliated metamorphic rocks: These rocks have a layered or banded appearance due to the alignment of platy minerals, such as mica or chlorite. Examples of foliated metamorphic rocks include slate, schist, and gneiss.
• Non-foliated metamorphic rocks: These rocks do not have a layered or banded appearance and are typically composed of interlocking mineral grains. Examples of non-foliated metamorphic rocks include marble, quartzite, and hornfels.

Metamorphic Processes

The two main types of metamorphic processes are:

• Contact metamorphism: This occurs when rocks come into contact with hot magma or lava. The heat from the magma causes the minerals in the rocks to recrystallize, forming new minerals and textures.
• Regional metamorphism: This occurs over large areas and is caused by deep burial and intense pressure within the Earth’s crust. The high pressure and temperature cause the minerals in the rocks to recrystallize and form new minerals and textures.

Importance of Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks are important for several reasons:

• They provide information about the Earth’s history: Metamorphic rocks can reveal information about the geological events that occurred in a region, such as mountain-building events or the presence of ancient volcanoes.
• They are used in construction: Some metamorphic rocks, such as marble and slate, are used as building materials due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.
• They are sources of minerals: Metamorphic rocks can contain valuable minerals, such as graphite, garnet, and talc, which are used in various industries.

In summary, metamorphic rocks are formed through the transformation of existing rocks due to intense heat, pressure, and chemical reactions. They provide valuable insights into the Earth’s geological history and have practical applications in construction and as sources of minerals.

Rock Cycle

The rock cycle is a continuous process that describes the transformation of rocks from one type to another. It is driven by various geological processes that occur over time, such as weathering, erosion, deposition, melting, and solidification. The rock cycle illustrates the interconnectedness of different rock types and the dynamic nature of the Earth’s crust.

Types of Rocks

There are three main types of rocks:

• Igneous Rocks: Formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava). Examples include granite, basalt, and obsidian.
• Sedimentary Rocks: Formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediments, such as sand, mud, and organic matter. Examples include sandstone, limestone, and shale.
• Metamorphic Rocks: Formed when existing rocks undergo changes in their mineral composition and texture due to heat, pressure, or chemical reactions. Examples include marble, slate, and gneiss.

Stages of the Rock Cycle

The rock cycle involves the following stages:

1. Weathering and Erosion: Rocks are broken down into smaller pieces by physical and chemical processes, such as temperature changes, water, wind, and chemical reactions.
2. Transportation: The weathered materials are transported by wind, water, or ice to different locations.
3. Deposition: The transported materials are deposited in layers, forming sediments.
4. Compaction and Cementation: The sediments are compacted under their own weight and cemented together by minerals, such as calcite or silica, to form sedimentary rocks.
5. Melting: Some sedimentary rocks, when subjected to high temperatures and pressure, can melt and form magma.
6. Crystallization: Magma cools and solidifies, either below the Earth’s surface (intrusive igneous rocks) or on the surface (extrusive igneous rocks).
7. Metamorphism: Rocks can undergo changes in their mineral composition and texture due to heat, pressure, or chemical reactions, resulting in the formation of metamorphic rocks.

Significance of the Rock Cycle

The rock cycle plays a crucial role in the Earth’s geological processes and has several important implications:

• Recycling of Earth’s Materials: The rock cycle continuously recycles the Earth’s materials, transforming rocks from one type to another.
• Formation of Minerals and Resources: The rock cycle is responsible for the formation of various minerals and resources, such as metals, gemstones, and fossil fuels.
• Understanding Earth’s History: Studying the rock cycle helps geologists understand the Earth’s geological history and the changes that have occurred over time.
• Plate Tectonics: The rock cycle is closely linked to plate tectonics, as the movement of tectonic plates influences the formation and transformation of rocks.

In summary, the rock cycle is a fundamental concept in geology that describes the continuous transformation of rocks through various geological processes. It highlights the interconnectedness of different rock types and provides insights into the dynamic nature of the Earth’s crust.

Some Rock Forming Minerals

Introduction

Rocks are composed of various minerals, each with its unique chemical composition and physical properties. Some of the most common rock-forming minerals include:

Quartz

• Quartz is the most abundant mineral on Earth’s continental crust.
• It is composed of silicon and oxygen atoms arranged in a repeating hexagonal structure.
• Quartz is a hard, durable mineral with a glassy luster.
• It is commonly found in igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
• Some common varieties of quartz include:
  • Rock crystal: Clear, colorless quartz.
  • Amethyst: Purple quartz.
  • Citrine: Yellow quartz.
  • Rose quartz: Pink quartz.
  • Smoky quartz: Brown or gray quartz.

Feldspar

• Feldspar is a group of minerals that are composed of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen.
• Feldspars are the most abundant minerals in the Earth’s crust.
• They are commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
• There are three main types of feldspar:
  • Orthoclase: Potassium feldspar.
  • Plagioclase: Sodium and calcium feldspar.
  • Microcline: Potassium feldspar.

Mica

• Mica is a group of minerals that are composed of aluminum, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen.
• Micas are platy minerals with a perfect cleavage.
• They are commonly found in igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
• There are two main types of mica:
  • Muscovite: White mica.
  • Biotite: Black mica.

Amphibole

• Amphiboles are a group of minerals that are composed of silicon, oxygen, magnesium, iron, and calcium.
• Amphiboles are commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
• They are typically dark-colored minerals with a prismatic or fibrous habit.
• Some common amphiboles include:
  • Hornblende: A common amphibole found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
  • Actinolite: A green amphibole found in metamorphic rocks.
  • Tremolite: A white amphibole found in metamorphic rocks.

Pyroxene

• Pyroxenes are a group of minerals that are composed of silicon, oxygen, magnesium, iron, and calcium.
• Pyroxenes are commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
• They are typically dark-colored minerals with a prismatic or fibrous habit.
• Some common pyroxenes include:
  • Augite: A common pyroxene found in igneous rocks.
  • Diopside: A green pyroxene found in metamorphic rocks.
  • Hypersthene: A brown pyroxene found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Olivine

• Olivine is a mineral that is composed of magnesium, iron, and silicon.
• Olivine is commonly found in igneous rocks.
• It is a dark-colored mineral with a glassy luster.
• Olivine is the most abundant mineral in the Earth’s mantle.

Calcite

• Calcite is a mineral that is composed of calcium carbonate.
• Calcite is commonly found in sedimentary rocks.
• It is a white or colorless mineral with a pearly luster.
• Calcite is the main component of limestone and marble.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many rock-forming minerals that exist. Each mineral has its own unique properties and plays an important role in the formation and composition of rocks.

Types of Rocks NCERT Notes FAQs

Introduction

Rocks are solid, naturally occurring, inorganic substances that form the Earth’s crust. They are composed of minerals, which are naturally occurring, solid, inorganic substances with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure. Rocks can be classified into three main types based on their mode of formation: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

Igneous Rocks

Igneous rocks are formed when magma or lava cools and solidifies. Magma is molten rock that is found beneath the Earth’s surface, while lava is molten rock that has erupted onto the Earth’s surface. Igneous rocks are classified into two main types: intrusive and extrusive.

Intrusive igneous rocks are formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth’s surface. These rocks are typically coarse-grained because the magma has time to cool slowly. Examples of intrusive igneous rocks include granite, diorite, and gabbro.

Extrusive igneous rocks are formed when lava cools and solidifies on the Earth’s surface. These rocks are typically fine-grained because the lava cools quickly. Examples of extrusive igneous rocks include basalt, andesite, and rhyolite.

Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks are formed when sediments, which are bits of rock, minerals, and organic matter, are deposited and compacted over time. Sediments can be transported by wind, water, or ice. Sedimentary rocks are classified into two main types: clastic and chemical.

Clastic sedimentary rocks are formed when sediments are deposited and compacted. These rocks are typically composed of fragments of other rocks and minerals. Examples of clastic sedimentary rocks include sandstone, shale, and conglomerate.

Chemical sedimentary rocks are formed when minerals precipitate out of water. These rocks are typically composed of a single mineral. Examples of chemical sedimentary rocks include limestone, dolomite, and gypsum.

Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks are changed by heat, pressure, or chemical reactions. Metamorphic rocks can be formed from igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks. Metamorphic rocks are classified into two main types: foliated and non-foliated.

Foliated metamorphic rocks have a layered or banded appearance. This is due to the alignment of minerals in the rock. Examples of foliated metamorphic rocks include slate, schist, and gneiss.

Non-foliated metamorphic rocks do not have a layered or banded appearance. This is because the minerals in the rock are not aligned. Examples of non-foliated metamorphic rocks include marble, quartzite, and hornfels.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a rock and a mineral? A: Rocks are solid, naturally occurring, inorganic substances that form the Earth’s crust. Minerals are naturally occurring, solid, inorganic substances with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure.

Q: What are the three main types of rocks? A: The three main types of rocks are igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

Q: How are igneous rocks formed? A: Igneous rocks are formed when magma or lava cools and solidifies.

Q: How are sedimentary rocks formed? A: Sedimentary rocks are formed when sediments, which are bits of rock, minerals, and organic matter, are deposited and compacted over time.

Q: How are metamorphic rocks formed? A: Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks are changed by heat, pressure, or chemical reactions.

Q: What are some examples of igneous rocks? A: Some examples of igneous rocks include granite, diorite, gabbro, basalt, andesite, and rhyolite.

Q: What are some examples of sedimentary rocks? A: Some examples of sedimentary rocks include sandstone, shale, conglomerate, limestone, dolomite, and gypsum.

Q: What are some examples of metamorphic rocks? A: Some examples of metamorphic rocks include slate, schist, gneiss, marble, quartzite, and hornfels.