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Fossils can be found in sedimentary rocks.

Rocks

In this KS2 Science quiz we look at some types of rocks, such as basalt or chalk. We also look at some properties of different rocks, like permeability and durability.

Rocks and stones are solid minerals. There are many different types. You may have used chalk on a blackboard but did you know that chalk is a rock? Different rocks have different properties. One kind, pumice, can even float! Basalt is one of the most common rocks on Earth because most of the ocean's floor is made from it. The Giant's Causeway, a famous tourist attraction located in Northern Ireland, is formed from hexagonal basalt columns. These columns formed entirely naturally from cooling lava after an ancient volcanic eruption.

How many types of rocks can you name? Do you know the words that describe their properties? See how much you know about rocks by trying this science quiz.

Which of these rocks is white?

Basalt

Obsidian

Chalk

Slate

The famous White Cliffs of Dover are made of chalk

Which rock can float on water?

Sponge

Pumice

Diamond

Granite

Pumice can float because its density is so low - less than that of water!

Why is slate often used to make roof tiles?

Because slate is impossible to break

Because slate is not too durable

Because slate is heavy and permeable

Because slate is durable and impermeable

Slate weathers very well and doesn't let the rain through - these are perfect qualities for a roof

What does 'permeability' mean?

How magnetic a material is

How well a material allows another substance to pass through it

How heavy a material is

How effective a thermal insulator a material is

A rock's permeability means how well it allows water to pass through it

Fossils can be found in which type of rocks?

Sedimentary

Igneous

Metamorphic

All of the above

Sedimentary rocks are formed when layers of mud, dust or shells (sediment) are placed under great pressure from the layers of sediment above them. Living organisms which fall into underwater sediment may eventually become fossils

Which type of rock is formed from cooled lava or magma?

Organic

Igneous

Sedimentary

Metamorphic

Granite is an example of an igneous rock

'Durability' means 'able to withstand wear and tear'. Which of these rocks has the greatest durability?

Chalk

Sandstone

Siltstone

Granite

Aberdeen in Scotland is known as Granite City because of the abundance of the rock found there. Aberdeen granite was used to build the House of Parliament in London

Which type of rock is formed from mud or shells?

Organic

Igneous

Sedimentary

Metamorphic

Limestone is an example of sedimentary rock

Which one of the following is not a type of rock?

Organic

Igneous

Sedimentary

Metamorphic

Organic usually means to do with living things