Last week, we explored the wonderful world of minerals, which could be considered the foundation of the physical Earth that this class studies.

This module will introduce the three types of rock, their essential characteristics, and their origins - where they form on or within Earth. The Rock Cycle will also be discussed, illustrating how each rock type is interrelated. In subsequent modules, we explore each type of rock, igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic, in more detail and learn how to identify some of the most common examples by name.

Overview

Minerals are the building blocks of rocks. There are nearly 6,000 different minerals found on Earth. Still, only ten are commonly found in rocks, a.k.a. the "Big 10": orthoclase feldspar, plagioclase feldspar, quartz, muscovite mica, biotite mica, amphiboles (hornblende), pyroxenes (augite), calcite, olivine, and garnet.

Igneous and metamorphic rocks are primarily composed of silicate minerals, like feldspars, quartz, micas, amphiboles, and pyroxenes. Sedimentary rocks commonly contain silicate minerals such as clasts or detritus (grains of sand or gravel). Sedimentary rocks that form through precipitation are often composed of carbonate minerals, like calcite. At the same time, silica is the primary mineral in sedimentary rocks like chert.

The rock cycle summarizes the geologic processes forming the three different types of rock found on Earth. Igneous rocks form through the crystallization of molten material. Sedimentary rocks form from weathered and transported rocks and minerals that are lithified or precipitate into a rock. Metamorphic rocks result from a change in preexisting rock's texture and/or mineral composition. Within each group, dozens of rocks are named according to differences in texture and composition. This module will introduce rocks and the rock cycle and should prepare you for a more in-depth discussion about each rock group later in the semester.

The Rock Cycle

Rock Cycle from An Introduction to Geology, Salt Lake Community College, OER

Goals

Master the Learning Objectives

Students can explain the rock cycle, differentiate among the three types of rocks, and use texture and composition to identify common rocks and their origins
Use rock vocabulary correctly in lab exercises and quizzes
Connect rock types to their origins and their processes of formation
Distinguish between igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks using texture and mineral content
Describe the reasoning behind the use of different rock types as a building material

Complete the Module

Complete each page of this module in order (no skipping) using the "Next" button in the lower right corner of this page
Submit each assignment by the due date to avoid late penalties
Consider your understanding of the learning objectives for each assignment
Submit all assignments by the module closing date, next Monday at 11:59 pm
Use Pronto to talk with your classmates
Contact your instructor or TA with questions, concerns, suggestions, etc.