Rocks Explained for 9-Year-Old Kids: Types, Formation, and Facts

What Are Rocks?

Rocks are solid pieces of the Earth's surface. They are made of one or more minerals tightly packed together. Rocks make up mountains, the ground we walk on, and even the sand at the beach!

Types of Rocks

There are three main types of rocks, and they form in different ways:

1. Igneous Rocks: These rocks form when hot, melted rock called magma cools and hardens. This can happen inside the Earth or after a volcano erupts. Examples: granite and basalt.
2. Sedimentary Rocks: These rocks form when tiny pieces of minerals, plants, and animal remains get pressed together over a very long time. Layers build up, making rocks like sandstone and limestone.
3. Metamorphic Rocks: These rocks started as igneous or sedimentary rocks, but heat and pressure deep inside the Earth changed them into new types. Examples include marble and slate.

Why Are Rocks Important?

Rocks help us learn about Earth's history and they provide materials we use every day, like the stones in buildings, jewelry, and even the soil for growing plants.

Fun Fact

Did you know that the rock called pumice is so light it can float on water?