Question

How can geologists use a rock cycle diagram?

Answer 1

Hint: There are three types of rocks- metamorphic, igneous and sedimentary. A rock cycle diagram is a useful way to define the relationship between the three varieties of rocks and also describe the changes the rock undergoes in the various stages of the rock cycle.

Complete answer:
The Plate tectonic activity, weathering and erosion is responsible for the recycling of the rocks. The conversion of rocks from one form to another is known as rock cycle. The heat, pressure and melting inside the earth changes the sedimentary and igneous rocks into metamorphic rock. The heating produces hot liquid rock or the magma. These bursts through the surface of the earth and cools down and solidifies into igneous rock. The cycle begins with continuous weathering and erosion.

The rock cycle diagram is represented by the diagram below.

The cycle helps the scientists and engineers in finding and locating the sources of fossil fuel. The fossil fuels are only found in the sedimentary rock.
It also helps in locating stones like marble, granite which are used as building material.
It also helps in knowing about the formation of soil which is closely connected with the food chain.

Note: The metamorphic rocks are the rocks which are formed by the heat and pressure inside the earth crust. The igneous rocks are formed when the molten lava cools and solidifies. The sedimentary rocks are formed as a result of particles settling out of air or water. They accumulate in layers of sand, dead skeleton, dead plants, silt.