Planet Rock Vocabulary Words

A solid element or compound with a unique structure of atoms. There are formed by natural processes and are the building blocks of rocks.

Characteristics by which matter is described. Hardness, size, color, shape, flexibility, buoyancy (sinking or floating), state of matter (solid, liguid, gas), odor, mass and volume are some properties of matter.

The processes that move weathered material from place to place. It occures through the forces of gravity, wind, ice, water and human actions.

The processes that cause minerals and rocks to become smaller. It includes the actions of frost, plant roots, thermal expansion, the rubbing of rocks upon rocks, moving water and wind, gases and living organisms

This is formed when sediments are deposited in layers, pressed down under great pressure over long periods of time and become cemented or fastened together into a solid piece.

A force that occurs when an object pushes on other objects. It is involved in the formation of sedimentary and metamorphic rock.

Pre-existing rocks in which minerals are changed by great pressure and heat.

The magma that reached the earth's surface during a volcanic eruption or lava flow.

Molten rock material found beneath the earth's surface which forms igneous rock when it cools.

Formed when molten rock material cools and hardens to become a solid. It is one of the three types of rocks.

An endless process of change in which existing rocks are changed into new rocks.