Consider the following statements: 1. Rocks do not remain in their o

Consider the following statements:

  • 1. Rocks do not remain in their original form for long and undergo transformation.
  • 2. Transformation of rocks is caused by weathering, erosion and metamorphic action.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2022
The correct answer is C) Both 1 and 2.
Statement 1 is correct: Rocks are continuously undergoing transformation through the rock cycle (igneous to sedimentary, sedimentary to metamorphic, etc.). They are not static entities. Statement 2 is correct: Transformation is indeed caused by various processes. Weathering and erosion break down rocks, which is a necessary step in the formation of sedimentary rocks. Metamorphic action (heat and pressure) directly transforms existing rocks into metamorphic rocks. These processes are key drivers of the rock cycle.
The rock cycle illustrates how rocks change from one type to another. Weathering, erosion, deposition, compaction, cementation (leading to sedimentary rocks), heat, and pressure (leading to metamorphic rocks), melting, and solidification (leading to igneous rocks) are all processes involved in the transformation of rocks.