What is the difference between Igneous, Sedimentary and Metamorphic Rocks?

When we refer to the terms igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic, we are talking about rock. These are the three types of rock which also have their differences. Their major differences, after all, is their mode of formation and their various physical textures. Igneous rocks are formed by the cooling down and solidification of molten rocks or magma. Sedimentary rocks are formed when eroded substances are accumulated; while metamorphic rocks are formed by the change and transformation of rocks, that is when they are metamorphosed due to the exact of pressure and heat. Igneous rocks are usually found in the earth’s mantle or crust.

Sedimentary rocks are commonly found in water bodies like seas, oceans, etc., while metamorphic rocks can be found on the surface of the earth. Examples of igneous rocks are basalt and granite, while the examples of sedimentary rocks are sandstone, shale, and limestone, and the examples of metamorphic rocks are slate, marble, and quartzite.

As the name suggests, igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic are types of rocks. One difference between the three of them is how they are formed. Cooled down and solidified molten rocks form igneous rocks. Sedimentary rocks are formed when matters like dust and dirt are sedimentated. When pressure and intense heat occur under the Earth, metamorphic rocks form. Examples of igneous rocks include granite and basalt.

Sandstone and limestone are examples of sedimentary rocks, while slate and marble are examples of metamorphic rocks. Another difference between them is what they are used for. Igneous rocks are used for mineral deposits, like tin. Sedimentary rocks are used for construction work. Metamorphic rocks are used for research related to geology.