Ever wondered how rocks are made? They're not just lying around! Let's uncover the fascinating formation stories of the three major rock types.
**Igneous Rocks: Born from Fire** Imagine molten rock, either deep underground (magma) or erupting from a volcano (lava). When this molten material cools and solidifies, igneous rocks are born. Granite and basalt are prime examples, each with a unique cooling history and mineral composition.
**Metamorphic Rocks: Transformation Under Pressure** These rocks start as either igneous, sedimentary, or even *other* metamorphic rocks! But, intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth change their mineral structure and texture. Think of it as a geological makeover. Shale can transform into slate, and limestone can become marble.
**Sedimentary Rocks: Layer Upon Layer** These are the storytellers of the rock world. They form from sediments – bits of weathered rock, mineral fragments, and even organic matter – that accumulate in layers. Over time, these layers get compacted and cemented together, creating rocks like sandstone, limestone, and shale. Each layer can tell a tale of past environments!
