Part II – Rock Type
The strength of a rock or its resistance to erosion is determined by its type.  Sedimentary rock is cemented together with some forms being more resistant then others depending on the process that cemented it together.  Igneous rocks are generally harder and more resistant as the crystallization of the solidifying magma locks the individual grains into solid rock.  Metamorphic rock is generally as resistant as most igneous rock due to the heat and pressure of formation recrystallizing its elements.  Depending on which of these main forms of rock and subclass, the resistance to erosion and weathering can be vastly different.  We would expect a soft sedimentary rock type to erode, round-off and disintegrate quickly, when a hard mineralized rock made of lots of quartz could take several orders of magnitude longer to weather to the same degree.
When looking closely at the rock surface, what characteristics are present (highlight one) (1) -  Fine-grained with many layers, Cemented sand grains, Cemented pebbles and small rocks, Course-grained mineral mix, Fine-grained mineral mix, Course-grain swirling bands

What main type of rock is this, sedimentary, igneous or metamorphic? (1)



What subclass of rock is this? (1)  

Answer rating: 100% (QA)

SEDIMENTARY ROCKS Sedimentary rock is cemented together with some forms being more resistant then others depending on the process that cemented it together The word sedimentary is derived from the Lat... View the full answer