Why is the rock cycle unique to the planet earth?

Answer 1

The rock cycle refers to the way in which the three rock types (igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary) are related to each other and how Earth processes change a rock from one type to another through geologic time.

While igneous rocks are certainly present on many of the other planets, they lack the tectonic processes (plate tectonics) that change igneous rocks into metamorphic rocks. They also lack the atmosphere, water and weathering processes that convert igneous and metamorphic rocks into sedimentary rocks on Earth.

Answer 2

we really cannot say that it is. if only there were not millions and billions of possibilities out there like a lottery.

the earth has a cycle as defined by us as years, eons, etc... our solar distance from the sun would be the biggest factor and that makeup of the earth's composition of internal materials. a lot of the internal heat that the earth has is due to radiation from the sun but quite a bit is from radioactive decay. exothermic. the net over time is a loss. greenhouse whatever or not.

it would be safer to think that we are similar to something else than just an anomoly that does not exist elsewhere.

Answer 3

the rock cycle is not only on earth, but on some planets there aren't certain rocks. some rocks need water to be formed, and others need lava, like igneous rocks, and some planets don't have these.

Answer 4

Because there are many rocks.

Answer 5

It can take thousands, sometimes even millions of years to get rock to get through the rock cycle.

Answer 6

Its not, other planets have been proven to have volcanoes and other natural cycles that influence rock formation and rock cycles.