Question 1

What is the scientific study of rocks called?

Accepted Answer

Petrology. Petrology is the branch of geology that studies rocks and the conditions under which they form. It involves the analysis of the origin, composition, and structure of rocks. The term is derived from the Greek word 'petra' meaning rock.

Question 2

Which type of rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava?

Accepted Answer

Igneous Rocks. Igneous rocks are formed when molten rock cools and solidifies. They are often called primary rocks because other rock types are derived from them. Examples include granite and basalt.

Question 3

Which of the following is a common example of an intrusive igneous rock?

Accepted Answer

Granite. Granite forms when magma cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface. This slow cooling allows large crystals to form, giving it a coarse texture. It is widely used in construction due to its hardness.

Question 4

What type of rock is Basalt classified as?

Accepted Answer

Extrusive Igneous. Basalt is an extrusive igneous rock formed from the rapid cooling of lava on the surface. It has a fine-grained texture because crystals do not have time to grow large. It is the most common rock type in the Earth's oceanic crust.

Question 5

In which type of rocks are fossils most commonly found?

Accepted Answer

Sedimentary Rocks. Fossils are preserved in sedimentary rocks because these rocks form at temperatures and pressures that do not destroy remains. Organisms get buried in layers of sediment which eventually harden into rock. Igneous and metamorphic processes usually destroy organic material.

Rocks & Minerals — Set 1