What are the chemical properties of rocks?

What are two major properties used to classify igneous rocks?

  • Answer:

    The two major properties used to classify igneous rock are: Crystal Size/Texture--Small crystals are indicative of rapid above ground cooling of lava into what is classified as extrusive igneous rock such as basalt, obsidian, or rhyolite. Large crystals are indicative of slow cooling magma underground, resulting in what is called intrusive igneous rock such as granite, gabbro, and diorite. Chemistry or Mineralogy--Igneous rock is also classified by its elemental composition. Igneous rock, whether intrusive or extrusive, that is high in silica is classified as felsic. Igneous rock that is low in silica, but higher in heavier elements like iron, is classified as mafic. Rocks falling between the two are classified as intermediate.

wiki.answers.com Visit the source

Was this solution helpful to you?

Find solution

For every problem there is a solution! Proved by Solucija.

  • Got an issue and looking for advice?

  • Ask Solucija to search every corner of the Web for help.

  • Get workable solutions and helpful tips in a moment.

Just ask Solucija about an issue you face and immediately get a list of ready solutions, answers and tips from other Internet users. We always provide the most suitable and complete answer to your question at the top, along with a few good alternatives below.