What should a model of the rock cycle show as the process that changes sedimentary rock to metamorphic rock?(1 point) Responses melting melting cooling cooling compaction and cementation compaction and cementation heat and pressure
heat and pressure
Which process would change metamorphic rock to igneous rock?(1 point) Responses melting followed by cooling melting followed by cooling erosion followed by compaction erosion followed by compaction pressure followed by weathering pressure followed by weathering cooling followed by cementation
melting followed by cooling
To understand how a sedimentary rock changes into a metamorphic rock in the rock cycle, we can break down the process step by step.
First, it's important to know that the rock cycle describes the continuous transformation of rocks from one type to another over long periods of time. In the case of sedimentary rock transitioning into metamorphic rock, there are specific processes involved.
1. Start with sedimentary rock: Sedimentary rock is formed from layers of sediment, such as sand, silt, and organic debris, which become compacted and cemented together over time. This process is known as compaction and cementation, and it eventually forms sedimentary rock.
2. Burial and heat: Over time, these sedimentary rocks may be buried under more layers of sediment, leading to an increase in pressure and temperature. The heat, caused by geothermal energy from the Earth's interior, is an important factor in the transformation process.
3. Heat and pressure: As the sedimentary rocks get buried deeper within the Earth's crust, the surrounding pressure and temperature increase significantly. This combination of heat and pressure leads to changes in the mineral composition and structure of the rocks.
4. Metamorphism: The increased heat and pressure cause the minerals within the sedimentary rock to recrystallize and reorient themselves. This process, called metamorphism, results in the formation of a new rock type - metamorphic rock. The original sedimentary rock's texture, appearance, and mineral composition are altered during this process.
In summary, a model of the rock cycle should show the process of compaction and cementation transforming sedimentary rock, followed by burial, increase in heat and pressure, and ultimately the formation of the metamorphic rock through recrystallization and reorientation of minerals.