Types Of Rocks Quiz

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  • 1/20 Questions

    Which of the following is NOT one of the three types of rock?

    • Igneous
    • Sedimentary
    • Magma
    • Metamorphic
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About This Quiz

Do you think rocks are just hard and boring? Think again! Dive into our Types of Rocks Quiz and uncover the cool, rocky world beneath your feet. This quiz will test your knowledge about the three main types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Each question in our quiz is designed to help you learn interesting facts about how these rocks are formed and where you can find them.

For example, did you know some rocks come from volcanoes while others are made from layers of sand or mud squished together over millions of years? And some rocks even transform under pressure and heat without melting! Whether you're a rock expert or just starting to learn about geology, this quiz offers a great way to test what you know and learn new stuff. Get ready to rock your brain with questions about how rocks change, what they're made of, and much more.

Types Of Rocks Quiz - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    Rocks are generally classified as igneous, ___________________________, or metamorphic.

    Explanation
    The correct answer is "sedimentary, sedimentary". Rocks are generally classified into three types: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and cementation of sediments, such as sand, silt, and clay. They are often layered and contain fossils. "Sedementary" is a misspelling, and the correct term is "sedimentary".

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  • 3. 

    Intrusive igneous rocks form when ______________________ hardens and cools.

    Explanation
    Intrusive igneous rocks form when magma hardens and cools. Magma refers to molten rock beneath the Earth's surface. When magma rises to the surface and cools quickly, it forms extrusive igneous rocks. However, when magma cools slowly beneath the surface, it forms intrusive igneous rocks. These rocks have a coarse-grained texture due to the slow cooling process, allowing larger mineral crystals to form.

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  • 4. 

    Which of the following is true about rocks?

    • Rocks are composed of only one mineral.

    • Rocks do not contain minerals.

    • Coal is not considered a rock.

    • Most rocks are a mixture of minerals.

    Correct Answer
    A. Most rocks are a mixture of minerals.
    Explanation
    Most rocks are a mixture of minerals because rocks are naturally occurring solid aggregates of minerals. They are formed through various geological processes such as cooling and solidification of magma or by the accumulation of sediment. These processes often result in the combination of different minerals within a rock. While some rocks may be composed of a single mineral, such as pure limestone or quartzite, the majority of rocks are made up of multiple minerals, giving them their unique characteristics and properties.

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  • 5. 

    How does metamorphic rock form?

    • Heat and pressure.

    • The cooling of magma.

    • Compaction of sediments.

    • The melting of rock.

    Correct Answer
    A. Heat and pressure.
    Explanation
    Metamorphic rock forms as a result of heat and pressure. When rocks are subjected to intense heat and pressure, the minerals within them undergo chemical and physical changes, causing the rock to transform into a new type of rock with different characteristics. This process, known as metamorphism, occurs deep within the Earth's crust where temperatures and pressures are high. The other options, cooling of magma, compaction of sediments, and melting of rock, are processes that lead to the formation of other types of rocks such as igneous and sedimentary rocks, but not metamorphic rocks.

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  • 6. 

    In which type of rocks are fossils found exclusively?

    • Intrusive igneous rocks.

    • Extrusive igneous rocks.

    • Sedimentary rocks.

    • Metamorphic rocks.

    Correct Answer
    A. Sedimentary rocks.
    Explanation
    Fossils are found only in sedimentary rocks. This is because these rocks form from the accumulation and compaction of sediments, which can include remains of plants, animals, and other organisms. Over time, these sediments are buried and solidified into rock, preserving the organic material as fossils. The process of fossilization is unlikely in igneous or metamorphic rocks, as the high heat and pressure involved in their formation would destroy organic remains.

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  • 7. 

    What is a rock called that forms when magma hardens beneath Earth's surface?

    • Intrusive metamorphic rock.

    • Intrusive igneous rock.

    • Extrusive sedimentary rock.

    • Extrusive igneous rock.

    Correct Answer
    A. Intrusive igneous rock.
    Explanation
    A rock that forms from magma hardening beneath the Earth's surface is known as an intrusive igneous rock. This type of rock forms when magma cools slowly deep within the Earth, allowing large crystals to grow. The slow cooling process results in rocks with a coarse-grained texture. Examples of intrusive igneous rocks include granite and diorite. These rocks are often visible at the surface of the Earth due to the erosion of overlying materials.

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  • 8. 

    A(n) ______________________________ is a solid mass of mineral material or other matter that occurs naturally.

    Correct Answer
    rock
    Explanation
    A rock is a solid mass of mineral material or other matter that occurs naturally. Rocks are made up of different minerals and can vary in size, shape, and composition. They are formed through various geological processes, such as cooling and solidification of molten material, or through the accumulation of sediment over time. Rocks are an essential part of the Earth's crust and play a crucial role in shaping the landscape and providing valuable resources.

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  • 9. 

    The breaking down of a rock by rain, wind, or ice is known as _______________________.

    Correct Answer
    weathering
    Explanation
    Weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down or decayed by the effects of weather, such as rain, wind, or ice. Over time, these weathering agents gradually wear away at the surface of the rock, causing it to break apart into smaller pieces. This process is a natural part of the Earth's geological cycle and plays a crucial role in the formation of soil and the shaping of landscapes.

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  • 10. 

    What type of rock is most similar to the material formed when a saltwater solution evaporates and cements quartz sand grains together?

    • An extrusive igneous rock.

    • An intrusive igneous rock.

    • A sedimentary rock.

    • A metamorphic rock.

    Correct Answer
    A. A sedimentary rock.
    Explanation
    When the saltwater solution is poured into the sand and allowed to evaporate, the mineral residue from the solution acts as a cementing agent, binding the sand grains together. This process is similar to the formation of sedimentary rocks, where sediments are compacted and cemented together over time. Sedimentary rocks are formed through the accumulation and lithification of sediment, and in this case, the sand grains being cemented together by the mineral residue aligns with the characteristics of sedimentary rock formation.

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  • 11. 

    Which of the following represents the correct order of the processes responsible for the formation of sedimentary rocks?

    • Erosion, weathering, compaction, cementation, deposition.

    • Compaction, cementation, deposition, weathering, erosion.

    • Deposition, cementation, compaction, erosion, weathering.

    • Weathering, erosion, deposition, compaction, cementation.

    Correct Answer
    A. Weathering, erosion, deposition, compaction, cementation.
    Explanation
    The correct order of the processes responsible for the formation of sedimentary rocks is as follows: weathering, erosion, deposition, compaction, and cementation. Weathering refers to the breakdown of rocks into smaller fragments, which are then transported by erosion. Deposition occurs when these fragments settle and accumulate in a new location. Over time, the weight of the accumulated sediment leads to compaction, where the particles are pressed together. Cementation then takes place, as minerals precipitate and bind the sediment particles together, forming solid rock.

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  • 12. 

    Which of the following is an example of an extrusive igneous rock?

    • Basalt

    • Coal

    • Sandstone

    • Granite

    Correct Answer
    A. Basalt
    Explanation
    Basalt is an example of an extrusive igneous rock because it is formed from lava that cools and solidifies on the Earth's surface. This rapid cooling process prevents large mineral crystals from forming, resulting in a fine-grained texture. Basalt is commonly found in volcanic areas and is known for its dark color and high density.

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  • 13. 

    True or False: A metamorphic rock that has grains arranged in bands is said to be non-foliated.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    A metamorphic rock that has grains arranged in bands is said to be foliated, not non-foliated. Foliation refers to the alignment of minerals or grains in a rock, creating parallel bands or layers. Non-foliated rocks lack this alignment and typically have a more uniform texture. Therefore, the correct answer is False.

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  • 14. 

    What is the most common type of intrusive igneous rock?

    • Basalt

    • Gabbro

    • Granite

    • Pumice

    Correct Answer
    A. Granite
    Explanation
    Granite is the most common type of intrusive igneous rock. It forms from the slow cooling of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface, which allows large crystals to develop. Granite is composed mainly of quartz and feldspar with minor amounts of mica, amphiboles, and other minerals. This rock is often used in building and sculpting because of its durability and aesthetic appeal. Its widespread use and occurrence make it a notable example of an intrusive igneous rock.

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  • 15. 

    What rock-forming process occurs when hot magma comes near and heats up rock?

    • Regional metamorphism.

    • Biochemical sedimentation.

    • Contact metamorphism.

    • Deposition.

    Correct Answer
    A. Contact metamorphism.
    Explanation
    Contact metamorphism occurs when rock is heated by nearby magma. When magma intrudes into cooler rock, the intense heat can alter the mineral and structural composition of the surrounding rock without melting it. This process results in the formation of metamorphic rock, characterized by changes in texture and mineralogy due to the thermal influence of the magma. It's called "contact" metamorphism because it happens in areas where the hot magma is in direct contact with the surrounding rock.

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  • 16. 

    What type of texture will igneous rocks have if the lava cools so quickly that crystals do not have time to form?

    • Porphyritic texture.

    • Coarse-grained texture.

    • Glassy texture.

    • Fine-grained texture.

    Correct Answer
    A. Glassy texture.
    Explanation
    When lava cools rapidly, the molecules do not have enough time to arrange themselves into a crystalline structure, resulting in a glassy texture. This occurs when the lava is quickly quenched, such as when it comes into contact with water or air. In contrast, a porphyritic texture is characterized by large crystals surrounded by a fine-grained matrix, indicating a two-stage cooling process. A coarse-grained texture is formed when the lava cools slowly, allowing larger crystals to form. A fine-grained texture is typically the result of rapid cooling, but not as rapid as the glassy texture.

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  • 17. 

    Small pieces of rock or plant/animal material is called __________________________.

    Correct Answer
    sediment, sediments
    Explanation
    Small pieces of rock or plant/animal material that settle at the bottom of bodies of water or accumulate on land are commonly referred to as sediment. Sediment can include a variety of materials such as sand, silt, clay, and organic matter. These particles are often transported by water, wind, or ice and eventually settle due to gravity. Sediments play a crucial role in Earth's geological processes and can provide valuable information about past environments and climate conditions.

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  • 18. 
    The rock shown below has a foliated texture and contains the minerals amphibole, quartz, and feldspar arranged in coarse-grained bands. Which rock is pictured? - ProProfs

    The rock shown below has a foliated texture and contains the minerals amphibole, quartz, and feldspar arranged in coarse-grained bands. Which rock is pictured?

    • Slate

    • Pumice

    • Gneiss

    • Quartzite

    Correct Answer
    A. Gneiss
    Explanation
    The rock shown in the picture has a foliated texture, meaning it has distinct layers or bands. It also contains the minerals amphibole, quartz, and feldspar, which are arranged in coarse-grained bands. Gneiss is a type of metamorphic rock that fits this description, making it the correct answer. Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock, Pumice is an igneous rock with a vesicular texture, and Quartzite is a metamorphic rock composed mainly of quartz.

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  • 19. 

    A(n) _______________________sedimentary rock is made of pieces of other rocks.

    Correct Answer
    clastic
    Explanation
    A clastic sedimentary rock is formed from the accumulation of broken fragments or clasts of pre-existing rocks. These clasts can be of various sizes and are usually cemented together by a matrix material. The term "clastic" refers to the process of fragmentation and subsequent lithification of these rock fragments. Therefore, a clastic sedimentary rock is composed of pieces of other rocks, which have been transported, deposited, and lithified over time.

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  • 20. 

    _______ rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava).

    Correct Answer
    Igneous, igneous
    Explanation
    Igneous rocks are one of the three main types of rocks, formed through the cooling and crystallization of magma (molten rock found beneath the Earth's surface) or lava (molten rock that erupts onto the Earth's surface). This process can occur both underground and above ground, resulting in different textures and compositions of igneous rocks.

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  • Current Version
  • Apr 07, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Sep 20, 2008
    Quiz Created by
    Zirkleg
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