Question

Which phrases describe what the rock cycle shows? Check all that apply.

how rocks change from one type to another
which processes are involved in rock changes
that the changes follow a specific order
that the process of change is very rapid
what makes some rocks change more slowly than others

Answer 1

Selections that describe the rock cycle:
- how rocks change from one type to another — Yes. The rock cycle shows transitions among igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
- which processes are involved in rock changes — Yes. It shows processes like melting, cooling, weathering, erosion, deposition, compaction, cementation, and metamorphism.

Not correct:
- that the changes follow a specific order — No. The rock cycle is not a single fixed sequence; it shows many possible pathways and loops.
- that the process of change is very rapid — No. Most rock-cycle changes occur over long geologic timescales (though individual events like eruptions can be rapid).
- what makes some rocks change more slowly than others — No. The rock cycle illustrates the processes, but does not explain in detail the factors that control rates (composition, temperature, pressure, environment).