Where do rocks come from

Rocks are formed through a geological process called the rock cycle, which involves the transformation of one type of rock into another. The rock cycle consists of three main types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

1. Igneous Rocks: These rocks form from the cooling and solidification of molten magma or lava. When magma cools beneath the Earth's surface, it forms intrusive igneous rocks, while lava cooling at the surface forms extrusive igneous rocks. Examples include granite (intrusive) and basalt (extrusive).
2. Sedimentary Rocks: Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compression of sediments, which can include particles of minerals, organic material, and other rocks. Over time, these sediments are compacted and cemented together. Examples include limestone, sandstone, and shale.
3. Metamorphic Rocks: Metamorphic rocks are formed from the alteration of existing rocks due to heat, pressure, or the presence of chemically active fluids. This transformation often occurs deep within the Earth's crust. Examples include marble (from limestone) and schist (from shale).

The rock cycle involves the continuous processes of rock formation, weathering, erosion, transport, and deposition, leading to the creation and transformation of rocks over geological time scales. It's a dynamic process driven by various geological forces, including tectonic activity, weathering, and the movement of Earth's crust.