Rock Formation: Understanding the Process
What is the correct sequence of rock formation described in the given passage?
a. Granite → Sandstone → Limestone → Marble → Basalt → Gneiss
b. Granite → Sandstone → Limestone → Marble → Gneiss
c. Sandstone → Limestone → Marble → Basalt → Gneiss
d. Sandstone → Marble → Basalt → Gneiss
Answer:
The sequence of rock formation typically goes from igneous to sedimentary to metamorphic. In the multiple-choice options this would be represented by 'Granite → Sandstone → Limestone → Marble → Gneiss' (option b), though this sequence is not perfectly aligned with the passage.
Explanation: Based on the passage provided, the sequence of rock formation starts with an igneous rock, proceeds to a sedimentary rock, and then finally becomes a metamorphic rock. Translate this to the types of rock from the multiple-choice options, we can align as follows:
- Igneous rock: represented by Granite (most commonly) or Basalt
- Sedimentary rock: represented by Sandstone and Limestone
- Metamorphic rock: represented by Marble and Gneiss
Given this, none of the options (a, b, c, d) perfectly follow the sequence mentioned in the passage. However, option b. 'Granite → Sandstone → Limestone → Marble → Gneiss' could be a plausible sequence if we consider Granite as the initial igneous rock, Sandstone and Limestone as sedimentary stages, and Marble and Gneiss as subsequent metamorphic stages.