1. Rocks

2. Igneous Rock Origin: Magma from within the Earth cools to form igneous rock. Extrusive: Magma that reaches the surface, becomes lava and cools quickly. Typically this type of igneous rock is basalt, a rock with very small crystals Intrusive: Magma that cools slowly within the earth. Typically this type of igneous rock is granite, a rock with larger crystals.

3. Sedimentary Rock Origin: Pieces of eroded and weathered rock, of various sizes and called sediments, are carried by water and deposited in the oceans, seas or lakes. Once deposited, the pieces are buried by more sediment. Over millions of years, these sediments are compacted and cemented together to form rock. Eventually these sedimentary rocks are exposed by erosion and weathering and/or uplift from plate tectonics.

4. Metamorphic Rock Origin: When igneous or sedimentary rock comes into contact with heat, and in some cases certain chemicals, it changes, or “morphs” into different rock called metamorphic rock.