The Earth’s crust is made of different types of rocks. Rocks play an important role in the formation of soil. Soil is formed because of weathering and decomposition of rocks. Rocks also contain many minerals.
Differences between rocks and minerals
| Rocks | Minerals |
|---|---|
| Rocks are solid substances that may have a combination of more than one mineral. | Minerals are inorganic substances that occur naturally. |
| Rocks do not have a definite chemical composition. | Minerals have a definite chemical composition. |
| Rocks are mainly classified as igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. | Minerals are mainly classified into four groups—silicates, carbonates, sulphides, and metallic minerals. |
| Examples: Marble, slate, limestone | Examples: Iron, aluminium, calcium |
Also, read Igneous Rocks