Rocks are classified into the three main classes—sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous—primarily according to the method of their formation. Here's a brief overview of each class:
-
Igneous Rocks: Formed from the solidification of molten magma or lava. They can be classified as intrusive (formed from magma that cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface) or extrusive (formed from lava that cools quickly on the Earth's surface).
-
Sedimentary Rocks: Formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediments, which can be fragments of other rocks, minerals, or organic materials. They often form in layers and can include fossils.
-
Metamorphic Rocks: Formed when existing rocks (either igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks) undergo a transformation due to high heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids. This process is known as metamorphism.
While the rock cycle is a useful concept for understanding how rocks can change from one type to another over time, classification into these three groups is based primarily on the origin and formation processes of the rocks rather than how many times they have undergone changes in the rock cycle.