Question

The diagram below depicts the rock cycle. Name the alphabet Z and Y indicated in the diagram.

• A. Sediment & metamorphic rock
• B. Extrusive and intrusive igneous rock
• C. Mudstone and sandstone
• D. Basalt rocks and magma

Answer 1

The correct option is A Sediment & metamorphic rock

A series of changes occur when one type of rock changes into another under certain conditions. This process is continuous in nature and called rock cycle. Transformation of rocks occur due to heat, pressure, weathering and erosion. Igneous rock is always recognized as the starting point of the cycle. Rock cycle is as follows:
Step-1. Igneous rock is formed when very hot molten rock called magma rises to the Earth's surface through cracks made by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Step-2. The hot material then gets cooled after some time and solidifies. Igneous rock break down due to weather conditions and erosion thereby becoming sediment. Time and pressure cement the pieces together into sedimentary rock. Heat and pressure can change sedimentary rocks into metamorphic rocks.
Step-3. By the process of weathering and erosion, sedimentary rocks can melt to form magma and become igneous rock. It can again go through the process of weathering and compaction (when soil particles are pressed together) to become sedimentary rock. Therefore, the cycle goes on.