Processes
The Rock Cycle
Also Known As The Geologic Cycle
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A basic concept in geology that describes transitions through geologic time among the three main rock types: sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous. No rock is permanent; heat, pressure, melting and weathering recycle each type into the others over deep time.
Facts
TimescaleGeologic time, millions of years per full cycle 1 Driving ForceJointly driven by the Earth's internal heat, which powers melting and metamorphism, and by solar energy, which powers the weathering and erosion that produce sediment. 1 Resulting FeatureContinuously transforms rock among the igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic families as material melts, weathers, is buried and recrystallizes. 1 SignificanceThe rock cycle is the organizing concept that links every major rock-forming process into a single continuous system operating over geologic time. 1 Cross-Tradition Connections
Encompasses
Lithification converts unconsolidated sediments into sedimentary rocks.
Metamorphism is the rock cycle's transformation of existing rock under heat and pressure.
Weathering breaks rock down into the sediment the rest of the cycle transports, deposits and lithifies.
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