Sedimentary Rocks Quiz Questions

2.

Only one of these rocks is a sedimentary rock. Which one?

Shale
Slate
Granite

Correct Answer

A. Shale

Explanation

Shale is the correct answer because it is a type of sedimentary rock. Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediment over time. Shale specifically is formed from clay, silt, or mud that has been compacted and lithified. On the other hand, slate and granite are both types of metamorphic rocks, which are formed from the transformation of pre-existing rocks due to high heat and pressure.

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3.

Where are the oldest layers of rock usually found in a cliff made from sedimentary rock?

At the top
In the middle
At the bottom

Correct Answer

A. At the bottom

Explanation

The oldest layers of rock are usually found at the bottom of a cliff made from sedimentary rock. This is because sedimentary rocks are formed through the accumulation and compaction of sediment over time. As new layers of sediment are deposited on top, the older layers become buried and compressed, gradually forming solid rock. Therefore, the layers that were deposited first and are the oldest will be located at the bottom of the cliff.

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4.

What is magma?

Salt crystals in sedimentary rock
Molten rock
Bubbles of gas

Correct Answer

A. Molten rock

Explanation

Magma is the correct answer because it refers to molten rock. Magma is a hot, fluid substance that is found beneath the Earth's surface. It is formed when solid rock melts due to high temperatures and pressure. Magma can eventually rise to the surface and erupt as lava during volcanic activity. It is important in the formation of igneous rocks and plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's geology.

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5.

What does the presence of tiny crystals in a piece of igneous rock tell you about it?

The molten rock cooled very quickly
The molten rock cooled very slowly
The molten rock cooled deep underground

Correct Answer

A. The molten rock cooled very quickly

Explanation

The presence of tiny crystals in a piece of igneous rock suggests that the molten rock cooled very quickly. When magma cools rapidly, there is not enough time for large crystals to form, resulting in the formation of small crystals or even a glassy texture. This indicates that the rock was likely formed from a volcanic eruption or a rapid cooling event near the Earth's surface.

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6.

Which type of rock never contains fossils?

Sedimentary
Igneous
Metamorphic

Correct Answer

A. Igneous

Explanation

Igneous rock is formed from the solidification of molten material, such as lava or magma. This process does not typically allow for the preservation of fossils, as the high temperatures involved would destroy any organic material. Sedimentary rock, on the other hand, is formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediment, which can often contain fossils. Metamorphic rock is formed from the alteration of existing rock through heat and pressure, and while it can sometimes contain fossils, they are usually highly distorted and difficult to recognize. Therefore, igneous rock is the type of rock that never contains fossils.

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7.

Which one of these rocks is an igneous rock?

Marble
Limestone
Basalt

Correct Answer

A. Basalt

Explanation

Basalt is an igneous rock because it is formed from the solidification of molten lava or magma. It has a fine-grained texture and is typically dark in color. Marble and limestone, on the other hand, are both sedimentary rocks formed from the accumulation and compression of organic or inorganic sediments.

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8.

Which statement about metamorphic rocks is correct?

They are formed when rocks are heated until they melt
They are only formed from heated sedimentary rocks
They are formed from all types of rock

Correct Answer

A. They are formed from all types of rock

Explanation

Metamorphic rocks are formed from all types of rock. This is because metamorphism occurs when pre-existing rocks undergo changes in response to heat, pressure, and/or chemical reactions, without melting completely. This process can affect any type of rock, including igneous, sedimentary, and even other metamorphic rocks. As a result, metamorphic rocks exhibit a wide range of textures and mineral compositions, reflecting the original rock's characteristics and the specific conditions of metamorphism.

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Sedimentary Rocks Quiz Questions

Which of the following is the order for forming sedimentary rocks?

Quiz Preview

Only one of these rocks is a sedimentary rock. Which one?

Where are the oldest layers of rock usually found in a cliff made from sedimentary rock?

What is magma?

What does the presence of tiny crystals in a piece of igneous rock tell you about it?

Which type of rock never contains fossils?

Which one of these rocks is an igneous rock?

Which statement about metamorphic rocks is correct?