The UK's Main Rock Types

Geography: KS3, topic 2.1.1

The 3 main types of rock found in the UK are igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.

Sedimentary rocks are formed when layers of sediment are compacted together over time. There are 3 main types in the UK:
Carboniferous limestone is a fairly hard rock formed from shells and skeletons of dead marine organisms.
Chalk is formed like carboniferous limestone but is softer.
Clay is a very soft rock made from mud and clay minerals.
- Chalk and clay are mainly found in the south-east of England with carboniferous limestone to the north and west.

Igneous rocks (e.g. granite) are formed when magma from the Earth's mantle cools and hardens.
A typical property of igneous rocks is that they are hard.
Igneous rocks are found scattered across Scotland, Northern Ireland, north-west Wales and south-west and north England.

Metamorphic rocks are formed when heat and pressure cause other rocks to change. The resulting rocks are harder and more compact.
Shale becomes slate when exposed to heat and pressure.
Slate becomes schist when exposed to more heat and pressure.
Metamorphic rocks are found in large bands across Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

Test yourself on The UK's Main Rock Types