What Are the Particles of Minerals or Other Rocks That Make Up a Rock?

Minerals in rock comprise various elements that are formed under particular conditions which influence their composition, structure and texture. Rock formations fall into three categories: igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary.

Crust, Mantle and Core

The earth is made up of a solid outer crust that is made up of the tectonic plates, followed by a liquid mantle, a liquid core, and at the very center, a solid core of iron.

Minerals

Minerals which occur in most rock are crystalline solids. Common elements found in minerals are oxygen, silicon, aluminum, iron and calcium.

Igneous Rock

Igneous rock forms when lava cools and solidifies. Most igneous rock is a combination of silicate minerals plus other elements.

Metamorphic Rock

Metamorphic rocks are preexisting formations such as igneous or sedimentary rocks which have been subjected to intense heat and pressure, so that they soften and deform. This changes texture and rearranges minerals in the rock.

Sedimentary Rock

Sedimentary rocks are formed by either weathering or organic breakdown of igneous, metamorphic and other sedimentary rocks. Examples of sedimentary rock are sandstone (mostly quartz), limestone (calcites) and shale, which is compacted mud.

References

• Indiana University: Minerals, Rocks & Rock Forming Processes
• Cal State Pomona: Mineral Identification
• University of Nevada, Reno: Composition of the Earth
• Physical Geography.net: Composition of Rocks