crossword clue type of rock – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "type of rock," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you through your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue type of rock" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LAVA: Molten rock that flows out onto the Earth's surface during a volcanic eruption, solidifying into an extrusive igneous rock.
5 Letters
SHALE: A fine-grained, clastic sedimentary rock composed of compacted mud, often found in layers.
SLATE: A fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock, typically dark gray, formed from the transformation of shale or mudstone.
6 Letters
MARBLE: A non-foliated metamorphic rock, usually white or light-colored, formed from the recrystallization of limestone or dolomite.
7 Letters
GRANITE: A common, coarse-grained intrusive igneous rock, primarily composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica.
7 Letters
IGNEOUS: One of the three main rock types, formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava).
11 Letters
SEDIMENTARY: A rock type formed from the accumulation or deposition of mineral or organic particles at the Earth's surface, followed by cementation.
METAMORPHIC: A rock type that has undergone a transformation by heat, pressure, or chemical alteration from a pre-existing rock.
More About "type of rock"
Rocks are fundamental components of Earth's crust, categorized into three major types based on their formation processes: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Each type tells a unique story about the planet's geological history and the forces that shape its surface and interior.
Igneous rocks originate from the cooling and solidification of molten magma or lava. When magma cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface, it forms intrusive igneous rocks like granite, characterized by large crystals. When lava cools quickly on the surface, it forms extrusive igneous rocks such as basalt or obsidian, often with fine grains or a glassy texture.
Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediments, which are fragments of pre-existing rocks, minerals, or organic matter. These sediments are transported by wind, water, or ice and deposited in layers. Over time, compaction and cementation turn these layers into solid rock, exemplified by sandstone, limestone, or shale.
Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks are subjected to intense heat, pressure, or chemical reactions, causing them to change their physical and chemical properties without melting. Examples include marble (from limestone) and slate (from shale), often displaying distinctive banding or foliation.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider broader categories: For clues like "type of rock," think about the main classifications (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic) first, then specific examples (granite, shale).
- Check cross-references: If you have intersecting words, use the known letters to narrow down the possibilities for "type of rock." This is especially useful for longer answers.
- Think about context: Is the puzzle themed around geology, science, or general knowledge? This might hint at the level of detail or commonality of the answer required.
- Look for synonyms and related terms: Sometimes, the clue might be a broader term, and the answer a more specific example, or vice-versa.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three main types of rock?
The three main types of rock are igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. They are classified based on how they are formed, each resulting from distinct geological processes.
How do geologists classify rocks?
Geologists classify rocks based primarily on their origin or formation process. This includes examining their mineral composition, texture, grain size, and the presence of features like layering or crystal structure, which all provide clues about their history.
Can rocks change from one type to another?
Yes, absolutely! Rocks are constantly changing from one type to another through the rock cycle. For example, an igneous rock can be weathered into sediment, which then forms sedimentary rock, and that sedimentary rock could then be subjected to heat and pressure to become metamorphic rock.