Unit 1 Vocabulary Earth System Processes

Compaction Sedimentary rock-forming process that occurs when small layers of small sediments become packed down by the weight of layers above them

Crystal Solid, made up of molecules arranged in a regular and repeating pattern

deposition Process which wind, water and gravity leave eroded sediments in new locations

Movement of sediment by wind, water, ice or gravity erosion Movement of sediment by wind, water, ice or gravity

glacier Large mass of ice and snow that exists year-round and is involved in erosion

Rock made from cooled magma. This is one of the 3 main kinds of rock. igneous Rock made from cooled magma. This is one of the 3 main kinds of rock.

The downward movement of rocks, soil, debris and earth. Landslide The downward movement of rocks, soil, debris and earth.

metamorphic Rocks created by high pressure and high temperature. These rocks are created deep in the Earth’s crust.

Rock cycle The process that changes rocks into different types of rock over a long time or geologic ages

sedimentary Rocks formed when sediments are pressed and cemented together naturally over millions of years

sediments Small pieces of material that have broken off of rocks and have been deposited by wind, water or ice.

Uplifting The upward movement of the Earth’s crust. This is how many mountains are formed.

weathering Process by which wind, water, and ice wear down rocks and other exposed surfaces; includes chemical and mechanical weathering