The diagram shows a specific example of one of the steps in the rock cycle. Two specific types of rock are featured in the example. Which of the following statements best summarizes the process shown?
A.
Heat and pressure turn a metamorphic rock into a sedimentary rock.
B.
Heat and pressure turn a sedimentary rock into a metamorphic rock.
C.
Melting turns an igneous rock into a metamorphic rock.
D.
Melting turns a metamorphic rock into an igneous rock.
B. Heat and pressure turn a sedimentary rock into a metamorphic rock.
B. Heat and pressure turn a sedimentary rock into a metamorphic rock.
To determine the correct answer, let's analyze the information given in the question. It states that the diagram shows a specific example of one of the steps in the rock cycle and features two specific types of rock.
The rock cycle is a continuous process where rocks are transformed from one type to another over time. It involves three main types of rock: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic.
Option A states that heat and pressure turn a metamorphic rock into a sedimentary rock. However, in the rock cycle, sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and consolidation of sediments. So, option A is not accurate in this context.
Option B states that heat and pressure turn a sedimentary rock into a metamorphic rock. This is a valid statement in the rock cycle. Metamorphic rocks are formed when preexisting rock (such as sedimentary or igneous rocks) undergo intense heat and pressure. Therefore, option B might be the correct answer.
Option C states that melting turns an igneous rock into a metamorphic rock. However, melting actually leads to the formation of igneous rocks, not metamorphic rocks. Therefore, option C is not a correct summary of the process shown.
Option D states that melting turns a metamorphic rock into an igneous rock. In the rock cycle, igneous rocks are indeed formed from the cooling of molten magma or lava, but metamorphic rocks are not melted to form igneous rocks. Therefore, option D is not accurate in this context.
Based on this analysis, option B - "Heat and pressure turn a sedimentary rock into a metamorphic rock" - appears to be the most accurate summary of the process shown in the diagram.