Which of the following statements is true?

Question

Lithification is the formation of igneous rock from sedimentary rock.
The rock cycle is powered by the movement of tectonic plates.
Metamorphic rock cannot form from preexisting metamorphic rock.
Subduction changes metamorphic or igneous rock into sedimentary rock.

Answer 1

The statement that is true is:

The rock cycle is powered by the movement of tectonic plates.

Here's a brief clarification on the other statements:

1. Lithification is the formation of igneous rock from sedimentary rock. - This is false. Lithification is the process through which sediment transforms into sedimentary rock, often through compaction and cementation.

2. Metamorphic rock cannot form from preexisting metamorphic rock. - This is false. Metamorphic rock can indeed form from other metamorphic rock through further metamorphism under different conditions of pressure and temperature.

3. Subduction changes metamorphic or igneous rock into sedimentary rock. - This is false. Subduction primarily leads to the formation of metamorphic rocks from igneous or older metamorphic rocks due to increased pressure and temperature. It does not directly result in the formation of sedimentary rock.

Thus, the only correct statement is about the rock cycle being powered by tectonic plates.