The rock cycle is a geological process that is undergone by the three main rock types: igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. This process involves transitions between the three types of rock through erosion into sediment and cementing, or heating and pressure. Igneous rock can become sedimentary rock. Sedimentary rock can become metamorphic rock. Metamorphic can become igneous. All rocks are made from minerals.
The rock cycle is a very important geological function. The earth's topography is determined largely by the stage at which the rock cycle is in. Rock also releases nutrients, such as minerals, into the biosphere as it erodes into particulate matter, or sediment. It plays a major role in the formation of soil, which provides all plant life and, therefore, all animal life with minerals.
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