How Are Rocks Formed on Earth? A Rockscapes.net Guide

Are you fascinated by the natural beauty of rocks and how they shape our landscapes? At rockscapes.net, we’re passionate about unveiling the geological processes that create these amazing formations, from towering mountains to the stones in your garden. Understanding rock formation is key to appreciating their diversity and potential in landscaping, so join us as we explore the fascinating world of petrogenesis, offering inspiration and practical advice for using rocks to enhance your outdoor spaces.

1. What Are the Three Main Types of Rocks and How Do They Form?

The three main types of rocks are sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous, each formed through distinct geological processes. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the rock cycle continuously transforms rocks from one type to another via processes like melting, cooling, erosion, and deformation.

Sedimentary Rocks: These rocks are formed from accumulated sediments, such as minerals, rock fragments, and organic matter, that are then compacted and cemented together.
Metamorphic Rocks: These rocks result from the transformation of existing rocks under high heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids.
Igneous Rocks: These rocks originate from the cooling and solidification of molten rock, either beneath the Earth’s surface (intrusive) or on the surface (extrusive).

2. How Do Sedimentary Rocks Form?

Sedimentary rocks form through the accumulation and cementation of sediments. Clastic, organic, and chemical processes each contribute to their formation. The University of Arizona’s Department of Geosciences emphasizes that sedimentary rocks provide valuable insights into Earth’s past environments and life forms.

Clastic Sedimentary Rocks: These form from the accumulation of mineral or rock grains, known as clasts. Erosion breaks down existing rocks into smaller pieces, which are then transported by wind, water, or ice to a new location. Over time, these fragments compact and cement together, forming rocks like sandstone and shale.

Alt text: Close-up of sandstone, showcasing its texture and mineral composition, illustrating a clastic sedimentary rock formation for rockscapes.net.

Organic Sedimentary Rocks: These rocks form from the accumulation of organic material, such as plant and animal remains. Over millions of years, these organic materials compress and harden, forming rocks like coal and some types of limestone.
Chemical Sedimentary Rocks: These form from the precipitation of minerals from water solutions. For example, when water evaporates, it leaves behind dissolved minerals that can form rocks like limestone, halite (rock salt), and chert.

3. What Role Does Weathering Play in the Formation of Sedimentary Rocks?

Weathering is the initial breakdown of rocks into smaller fragments, preparing the material for erosion and eventual formation of sedimentary rocks. According to research from the Geological Society of America, weathering processes significantly influence sediment composition and transport.

Physical Weathering: This process involves the mechanical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. Examples include freeze-thaw cycles, where water enters cracks in rocks, freezes, expands, and eventually breaks the rock apart.
Chemical Weathering: This process involves the chemical alteration of rocks, which weakens and breaks them down. For example, acid rain can dissolve certain minerals in rocks, causing them to crumble.
Biological Weathering: This process involves the breakdown of rocks by living organisms. For example, plant roots can grow into cracks in rocks and exert pressure, causing them to break apart.

4. What Is Erosion, and How Does It Contribute to Sedimentary Rock Formation?

Erosion is the process by which weathered rock fragments are transported from one location to another, eventually leading to sediment deposition and sedimentary rock formation. The National Park Service highlights erosion as a key natural process shaping landscapes and contributing to geological formations.

Water Erosion: Rivers, streams, and ocean waves can carry large amounts of sediment, transporting it over long distances.
Wind Erosion: Wind can pick up and carry fine particles of sediment, such as sand and dust, and deposit them in new locations.
Ice Erosion: Glaciers can erode rock as they move, carrying large amounts of sediment and depositing it as they melt.
Biological Activity: Burrowing animals and plant roots can also contribute to erosion by loosening and transporting sediment.

5. How Does Compaction and Cementation Lead to Sedimentary Rock Formation?

Compaction and cementation are crucial steps in transforming loose sediments into solid sedimentary rocks. The University of California, Berkeley’s Museum of Paleontology, explains that these processes bind sediment particles together, creating durable rock formations.

Compaction: As sediment accumulates, the weight of the overlying layers compresses the lower layers, squeezing out water and reducing the pore space between particles.
Cementation: Dissolved minerals precipitate from groundwater and fill the remaining pore spaces, binding the sediment particles together. Common cementing minerals include calcite, silica, and iron oxides.

6. How Are Metamorphic Rocks Formed?

Metamorphic rocks are formed from existing rocks that are transformed by intense heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids. Arizona Geological Survey notes that metamorphism can significantly alter the mineral composition and texture of the original rock.

Heat: High temperatures can cause minerals to recrystallize, forming new minerals that are stable under the new conditions.
Pressure: High pressure can cause minerals to align, creating a foliated texture.
Chemically Active Fluids: These fluids can transport elements and facilitate chemical reactions, leading to the formation of new minerals.

7. What Are Foliated and Nonfoliated Metamorphic Rocks?

Metamorphic rocks are classified as foliated or nonfoliated based on their texture. Foliated rocks exhibit a layered or banded appearance due to the alignment of minerals, while nonfoliated rocks do not.

Foliated Rocks: These rocks form when pressure causes minerals to align perpendicular to the direction of stress. Examples include gneiss, schist, and slate.

Alt text: Sample of gneiss rock, clearly displaying the foliated texture with distinct banding, perfect for adding character to any rockscapes.net design.

Nonfoliated Rocks: These rocks form when minerals do not align during metamorphism, often because the original rock lacked platy minerals or the pressure was uniform. Examples include marble, quartzite, and anthracite coal.

8. How Does Pressure Affect the Formation of Foliated Metamorphic Rocks?

Pressure plays a vital role in the formation of foliated metamorphic rocks by causing minerals to align perpendicular to the direction of stress. According to the textbook “Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology,” strong directional pressure results in the characteristic layering seen in foliated rocks.

Mineral Alignment: During metamorphism, elongated or platy minerals, such as mica and hornblende, rotate and align themselves in response to pressure.
Foliation Development: This alignment creates a layered texture, known as foliation, which is the most distinctive feature of foliated metamorphic rocks.

9. Can Sedimentary Rocks Transform Into Metamorphic Rocks?

Yes, sedimentary rocks can transform into metamorphic rocks under the right conditions of heat and pressure. The Mineralogical Society of America highlights that the transformation of sedimentary rocks into metamorphic rocks is a key part of the rock cycle.

Limestone to Marble: Limestone, a sedimentary rock, can transform into marble, a nonfoliated metamorphic rock, under high heat and pressure.
Sandstone to Quartzite: Sandstone, another sedimentary rock, can transform into quartzite, also a nonfoliated metamorphic rock, under similar conditions.
Shale to Slate: Shale, a sedimentary rock, transforms into slate, a foliated metamorphic rock, under directed pressure and moderate heat.

10. What Are Igneous Rocks and How Do They Form?

Igneous rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock, known as magma (underground) or lava (on the surface). The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History describes igneous rocks as fundamental to understanding Earth’s volcanic activity and geological history.

Magma: Molten rock found beneath the Earth’s surface.
Lava: Molten rock that has erupted onto the Earth’s surface.
Cooling and Solidification: As magma or lava cools, minerals crystallize, forming solid igneous rock.

11. What Are the Differences Between Intrusive and Extrusive Igneous Rocks?

Intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks differ in their formation location and cooling rate, which affects their texture.

Intrusive Igneous Rocks: These rocks form when magma cools slowly beneath the Earth’s surface, allowing large crystals to grow. They are also known as plutonic rocks. Granite and diorite are examples of common intrusive rocks.
Extrusive Igneous Rocks: These rocks form when lava cools quickly on the Earth’s surface, resulting in small crystals or a glassy texture. They are also known as volcanic rocks. Basalt and obsidian are examples of common extrusive rocks.

12. How Does the Cooling Rate Affect the Texture of Igneous Rocks?

The cooling rate significantly affects the crystal size and overall texture of igneous rocks. Slower cooling allows for larger crystal formation, while rapid cooling results in smaller crystals or a glassy texture.

Slow Cooling: Allows more time for crystals to grow, resulting in a coarse-grained texture.
Fast Cooling: Limits crystal growth, resulting in a fine-grained or glassy texture.

13. What Is Vesicular Texture in Extrusive Igneous Rocks?

Vesicular texture in extrusive igneous rocks refers to the presence of numerous small holes or cavities, formed by trapped gas bubbles during rapid cooling.

Gas Bubbles: As lava erupts onto the surface, gases dissolved in the magma are released, forming bubbles.
Trapped Bubbles: If the lava cools quickly, these bubbles can become trapped, creating a vesicular texture.
Example: Pumice is a common example of an extrusive igneous rock with a vesicular texture.

Alt text: Pumice samples displaying their porous, vesicular texture, perfect as a light and decorative element for garden designs, available at rockscapes.net.

14. How Do Rocks Contribute to Soil Formation?

Rocks contribute to soil formation through weathering processes that break them down into smaller particles, which mix with organic matter to form soil. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) emphasizes that parent rock material is a crucial factor influencing soil properties.

Weathering: Physical, chemical, and biological weathering break down rocks into smaller fragments.
Soil Composition: These fragments mix with organic matter, water, and air to form soil.
Nutrient Release: Rocks also release essential nutrients that plants need to grow.

15. What Are Some Common Uses of Rocks in Landscaping?

Rocks are widely used in landscaping for both decorative and functional purposes. Rockscapes.net offers a variety of rocks to enhance your outdoor spaces.

Decorative Elements: Rocks can add visual interest and texture to gardens, pathways, and water features.
Structural Elements: Rocks can be used to build retaining walls, steps, and other structural features.
Erosion Control: Rocks can help stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
Water Management: Rocks can be used to create drainage systems and manage stormwater runoff.

16. How Can I Choose the Right Rocks for My Landscaping Project?

Choosing the right rocks for your landscaping project depends on several factors, including the style of your garden, the climate, and the intended use of the rocks.

Consider the Style: Choose rocks that complement the overall style of your garden. For example, large boulders might be appropriate for a naturalistic landscape, while smaller pebbles might be better suited for a formal garden.
Consider the Climate: Choose rocks that are durable and resistant to weathering in your climate. For example, sandstone might not be a good choice in areas with frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
Consider the Intended Use: Choose rocks that are appropriate for their intended use. For example, you will need flat, stable rocks for a pathway.

17. Where Can I Find High-Quality Rocks for Landscaping in the USA?

You can find high-quality rocks for landscaping at rock suppliers, nurseries, and garden centers. Rockscapes.net is your go-to resource for a wide selection of rocks to enhance your landscape design.

Local Rock Suppliers: These suppliers typically offer a wide variety of rocks at competitive prices.
Nurseries and Garden Centers: These retailers often carry a selection of decorative rocks.
Online Retailers: Rockscapes.net provides an extensive catalog of rocks with detailed descriptions and images, making it easy to find the perfect stones for your project.

18. What Are Some Popular Rock Types for Landscaping in Arizona?

In Arizona, popular rock types for landscaping include granite, sandstone, quartzite, and volcanic rock. These rocks are well-suited to the arid climate and can add a unique touch to your landscape.

Granite: A durable and attractive rock that comes in a variety of colors.
Sandstone: A sedimentary rock that is easy to work with and comes in a range of earthy tones.
Quartzite: A metamorphic rock that is highly resistant to weathering.
Volcanic Rock: A lightweight and porous rock that is ideal for drainage and erosion control.

19. How Can I Use Rocks to Create a Low-Maintenance Landscape?

Rocks can be used to create a low-maintenance landscape by reducing the need for watering, mowing, and weeding.

Rock Gardens: These gardens feature a variety of rocks and drought-tolerant plants.
Gravel Pathways: These pathways are easy to maintain and provide good drainage.
Mulching with Rocks: Rocks can be used as mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture in the soil.

20. What Are the Environmental Benefits of Using Rocks in Landscaping?

Using rocks in landscaping can have several environmental benefits.

Water Conservation: Rocks can help reduce water consumption by reducing the need for irrigation.
Erosion Control: Rocks can help stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
Habitat Creation: Rocks can provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife.
Reduced Pesticide Use: By suppressing weeds, rocks can help reduce the need for herbicides.

21. How Do Geologists Study Rock Formations?

Geologists study rock formations using a variety of techniques to understand their origin, composition, and history. According to the Geological Society of America, these studies provide valuable insights into Earth’s geological processes and past environments.

Fieldwork: Geologists conduct fieldwork to observe and collect rock samples.
Microscopy: They use microscopes to examine the mineral composition and texture of rocks.
Geochemical Analysis: They analyze the chemical composition of rocks to determine their origin and age.
Remote Sensing: They use satellite imagery and other remote sensing techniques to study large-scale rock formations.

22. What is the Rock Cycle, and Why Is It Important?

The rock cycle is a continuous process in which rocks are transformed from one type to another through geological processes. The rock cycle is important because it helps us understand how Earth’s surface has changed over time and how different types of rocks are related.

Interconnected Processes: The rock cycle involves processes such as weathering, erosion, sedimentation, metamorphism, and igneous activity.
Understanding Earth’s History: Studying the rock cycle provides insights into the Earth’s geological history, including past climates, tectonic events, and volcanic activity.
Resource Management: Understanding the rock cycle is essential for managing natural resources, such as minerals, water, and soil.

23. How Do Tectonic Plates Influence Rock Formation?

Tectonic plates play a significant role in rock formation by driving processes such as mountain building, volcanism, and metamorphism. According to the theory of plate tectonics, Earth’s lithosphere is divided into several large plates that move and interact with each other.

Mountain Building: When tectonic plates collide, they can uplift and deform rocks, leading to the formation of mountain ranges.
Volcanism: Tectonic plate boundaries are often sites of volcanic activity, where magma rises to the surface and forms igneous rocks.
Metamorphism: The intense heat and pressure associated with tectonic plate movements can cause metamorphism of existing rocks.

24. What Is the Significance of Studying Rocks in Understanding Earth’s History?

Studying rocks provides valuable insights into Earth’s history by preserving evidence of past environments, life forms, and geological events. The Paleontological Society emphasizes that fossils found in sedimentary rocks provide crucial information about the evolution of life on Earth.

Fossils: Sedimentary rocks often contain fossils, which are the preserved remains of ancient plants and animals.
Environmental Indicators: The type of rock and its features can indicate the environmental conditions under which it formed, such as the presence of water, ice, or volcanic activity.
Dating Techniques: Radiometric dating techniques can be used to determine the age of rocks, providing a timeline of Earth’s history.

25. How Can I Identify Different Types of Rocks?

Identifying different types of rocks can be challenging, but there are several key characteristics to look for, including color, texture, mineral composition, and hardness.

Color: The color of a rock can provide clues about its mineral composition.
Texture: The texture of a rock refers to the size, shape, and arrangement of its mineral grains.
Mineral Composition: Identifying the minerals in a rock can help determine its type.
Hardness: The hardness of a rock can be tested using the Mohs hardness scale.

For personalized assistance in rock identification and selection, contact us at rockscapes.net!

26. How Do Chemical Reactions Influence the Formation of Rocks?

Chemical reactions play a crucial role in the formation and alteration of rocks. Chemical weathering, for example, involves reactions between minerals and water or air that break down rocks. Similarly, the formation of chemical sedimentary rocks involves the precipitation of minerals from solution, a process driven by chemical reactions.

Dissolution: The dissolving of minerals by water or acids.
Precipitation: The formation of solid minerals from a solution.
Oxidation: The reaction of minerals with oxygen.
Hydration: The incorporation of water into the crystal structure of minerals.

27. What Are Some Examples of Unique Rock Formations Around the World?

There are many unique rock formations around the world, each with its own fascinating geological history.

The Grand Canyon (USA): A deep canyon carved by the Colorado River, exposing layers of sedimentary rock dating back millions of years.
The Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland): An area of interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity.

Alt text: Basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway, displaying unique geological formations, inspiring landscape designs at rockscapes.net.

Uluru (Australia): A massive sandstone monolith that is sacred to the indigenous people of Australia.
Pamukkale (Turkey): A series of white travertine terraces formed by hot springs.

28. How Does the Study of Rocks Help Us Understand Climate Change?

The study of rocks provides valuable insights into past climate conditions and can help us understand the effects of climate change. For example, the composition of sedimentary rocks can indicate past temperatures, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric conditions.

Ice Cores: Ice cores from glaciers and ice sheets contain trapped air bubbles that can be analyzed to determine past atmospheric composition.
Tree Rings: The width and density of tree rings can provide information about past temperatures and precipitation levels.
Sediment Cores: Sediment cores from lakes and oceans can contain fossils and chemical indicators that reveal past environmental conditions.

29. How Can Rocks Be Used to Create Sustainable Landscapes?

Rocks can be used to create sustainable landscapes that require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance.

Xeriscaping: A landscaping technique that uses drought-tolerant plants and rocks to create water-efficient landscapes.
Permeable Paving: Using permeable paving materials, such as gravel or flagstone, allows rainwater to infiltrate the ground, reducing stormwater runoff.
Rain Gardens: These gardens are designed to capture and filter rainwater, reducing the amount of water that flows into storm drains.

30. What Are Some Common Misconceptions About Rock Formation?

There are several common misconceptions about rock formation.

Rocks Are Static: Rocks are constantly changing and being transformed through the rock cycle.
All Rocks Are Old: Some rocks, such as volcanic rocks, can be relatively young.
Rocks Are Unimportant: Rocks play a crucial role in many aspects of our lives, from providing building materials to supporting plant growth.

31. How Can I Learn More About Rock Formations?

There are many ways to learn more about rock formations.

Visit a Museum: Natural history museums often have exhibits on geology and rock formations.
Take a Geology Course: Many colleges and universities offer introductory geology courses.
Read Books and Articles: There are many books and articles available on rock formations and geology.
Explore Online Resources: Websites like rockscapes.net provide information on rock formations, landscaping, and sustainable practices.

32. What Geological Factors Influence the Types of Rocks Found in a Specific Region?

Geological factors like plate tectonics, volcanic activity, and sedimentary basins influence the types of rocks found in a specific region. For example, areas near plate boundaries often have metamorphic and igneous rocks due to the intense heat and pressure, while sedimentary basins accumulate layers of sediment over millions of years.

Plate Tectonics: Regions near plate boundaries experience intense geological activity, leading to the formation of metamorphic and igneous rocks.
Volcanic Activity: Volcanic regions are characterized by extrusive igneous rocks like basalt and obsidian.
Sedimentary Basins: Areas where sediments accumulate over time, forming sedimentary rocks like sandstone, shale, and limestone.

33. How Do Scientists Use Radioactive Dating to Determine the Age of Rocks?

Scientists use radioactive dating to determine the age of rocks by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes. Certain elements in rocks decay at a known rate, allowing scientists to calculate how long ago the rock formed.

Radioactive Isotopes: Elements like uranium, potassium, and carbon have radioactive isotopes that decay over time.
Decay Rate: Each radioactive isotope decays at a specific rate, known as its half-life.
Measuring Decay: By measuring the ratio of parent isotopes to daughter products, scientists can calculate the age of the rock.

34. What Role Do Microorganisms Play in Rock Weathering and Soil Formation?

Microorganisms play a significant role in rock weathering and soil formation by breaking down rocks and releasing nutrients. Bacteria, fungi, and lichens can colonize rock surfaces and secrete acids that dissolve minerals, contributing to both physical and chemical weathering.

Bio Weathering: Microorganisms accelerate the breakdown of rocks through chemical and physical processes.
Nutrient Cycling: They release essential nutrients from rocks, making them available for plant growth.
Soil Structure: Microbial activity improves soil structure, enhancing water retention and aeration.

35. How Can Understanding Rock Formation Help in Locating Natural Resources?

Understanding rock formation is essential for locating natural resources like minerals, oil, and gas. Different types of rocks are associated with different resources; for example, sedimentary rocks often contain oil and gas deposits, while igneous rocks can host valuable mineral deposits.

Mineral Deposits: Igneous and metamorphic rocks are often associated with valuable mineral deposits like gold, silver, and copper.
Oil and Gas: Sedimentary rocks, especially shale and sandstone, are primary sources of oil and natural gas.
Geological Surveys: Geologists use their knowledge of rock formations to conduct surveys and identify areas with potential natural resources.

36. What Advanced Technologies Are Used to Study Rock Properties and Formation?

Advanced technologies like X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and seismic imaging are used to study rock properties and formation. These techniques provide detailed information about the mineral composition, texture, and structure of rocks, as well as subsurface geological formations.

X-Ray Diffraction: Identifies the mineral composition of rocks by analyzing the way X-rays are diffracted by the crystal structure.
Electron Microscopy: Provides high-resolution images of rock surfaces and mineral structures at the microscopic level.
Seismic Imaging: Uses sound waves to create images of subsurface rock formations, helping to locate oil and gas deposits and understand geological structures.

37. How Does Human Activity Impact Rock Formation and Weathering Processes?

Human activities like mining, construction, and pollution can significantly impact rock formation and weathering processes. Mining and construction can accelerate erosion and alter landscapes, while pollution can lead to acid rain, which increases chemical weathering.

Mining: Mining operations can disrupt rock formations, leading to increased erosion and habitat destruction.
Construction: Building roads and structures can alter drainage patterns and accelerate weathering processes.
Pollution: Air and water pollution can increase chemical weathering by introducing acidic compounds into the environment.

38. What Are Some Emerging Trends in the Study of Rock Formations and Petrology?

Emerging trends in the study of rock formations and petrology include the use of machine learning to analyze geological data, the study of nanoscale rock properties, and the investigation of rock-microbe interactions. These trends are advancing our understanding of Earth’s geological processes and the role of rocks in the environment.

Machine Learning: Using algorithms to analyze large datasets of geological information, helping to predict rock properties and identify patterns.
Nanoscale Analysis: Studying the properties of rocks at the nanoscale, revealing new insights into mineral behavior and rock formation processes.
Rock-Microbe Interactions: Investigating the interactions between rocks and microorganisms, understanding their role in weathering, nutrient cycling, and soil formation.

Rockscapes.net is committed to bringing you the latest insights into rock formations and their practical applications in landscaping. Visit our website to explore a world of possibilities for your outdoor spaces, with a wide selection of rocks, expert advice, and innovative design ideas.

FAQ: How Rocks Formed on Earth

1. How long does it take for a rock to form?

The time it takes for a rock to form varies widely depending on the type of rock and the geological processes involved; some igneous rocks can form in a matter of days from rapidly cooling lava, while sedimentary rocks may take millions of years to form as layers of sediment accumulate and compact.

2. Can rocks change from one type to another?

Yes, rocks can change from one type to another through the rock cycle, a continuous process involving weathering, erosion, sedimentation, metamorphism, and melting; this cycle transforms rocks over geological timescales.

3. What is the deepest rock ever found?

The deepest rock samples have been obtained from deep drilling projects, such as the Kola Superdeep Borehole in Russia, which reached a depth of over 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) and provided insights into the Earth’s crustal composition.

4. Are there rocks forming on other planets?

Yes, rocks form on other planets through similar geological processes as on Earth, including volcanic activity on Mars and icy processes on moons like Europa; missions to these celestial bodies have provided evidence of diverse rock formations.

5. What is the most common rock on Earth?

Basalt, an extrusive igneous rock, is one of the most common rocks on Earth’s surface, particularly in oceanic crust; it forms from the rapid cooling of lava.

6. How do scientists study the composition of rocks?

Scientists study the composition of rocks using techniques like X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and chemical analysis; these methods reveal the mineral makeup and chemical properties of rocks.

7. What role do volcanoes play in rock formation?

Volcanoes play a crucial role in rock formation by erupting lava and ash, which cool and solidify to form extrusive igneous rocks like basalt and obsidian; volcanic activity also contributes to the formation of pyroclastic rocks.

8. Can rocks be used to predict earthquakes?

While rocks themselves cannot directly predict earthquakes, studying the behavior of rocks under stress and monitoring geological formations can provide insights into seismic activity and potential earthquake zones.

9. How does climate affect the weathering of rocks?

Climate significantly affects the weathering of rocks; in humid climates, chemical weathering is dominant due to increased water and biological activity, while in arid climates, physical weathering due to temperature fluctuations is more prevalent.

10. What is the difference between a rock and a mineral?

A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic solid with a defined chemical composition and crystal structure, while a rock is an aggregate of one or more minerals; rocks can also contain organic material and non-crystalline substances.

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