Chapter 3, Problem 1GST

To determine

To explain the fact that the sedimentary rocks are most abundant rock type on the earth's surface using the given rock cycle diagram.

Answer to Problem 1GST

On the basis of rock cycle, all the rock types are once expose to the surface are subjected to weathering and erosion are breakdown into sediments and transformed as sedimentary rocks. Thus sedimentary rocks are the most abundant rock type on the earth’s surface.

Explanation of Solution

Rock cycle is a model to understand the origin, breakdown and deformation of rocks as a result of sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic processes and to understand the connection with these three types of rocks.

Sedimentary rocks are most abundant rock type on the earth's surface on the basis of rock cycle, because the great majority of the exposed rocks on the earth surface and are sedimentary rocks; around 75% of the continental rock outcrop is made up of sedimentary origin.

Sedimentary layers are relatively thin when compared with the other rock strata. Once any type of the rock is exposed at the earth’s surface, it may be weathered and eroded. The resulting sediments will eventually transform into sedimentary rock by lithification processes.