What is the rock cycle?
The rock cycle describes how geological processes can transform rocks among igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic forms.
How it works and key principles
Processes: Cooling magma forms igneous rock. Weathering and erosion make sediments that may be deposited, compacted and cemented into sedimentary rock. Heat and pressure can alter minerals and texture without complete melting to form metamorphic rock. Rocks need not follow one fixed sequence.
Evidence, examples and limits
Time and evidence: Plate motion buries or exposes rocks; processes can span millions of years. Minerals, layers and dating techniques reveal past conditions. The cycle is not a perfect closed loop: material takes multiple routes and a rock may change repeatedly.
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