what is a more likely explanation for the basalt layer course hero

by Orlando Heidenreich 5 min read

What is basalt most likely formed by?

Basalts are formed by rapid cooling of basaltic lava, equivalent to gabbro–norite magma, from the interior of the crust and exposed at or very close to the surface.

What are basalt layers?

the lower layer of the earth's crust lying between the Conrad discontinuity and Mohorovičič discontinuity. The velocity of the longitudinal seismic waves (6.5–7.5 km/sec) in the basaltic layer makes it possible to assume that it is composed of gabbro.

What is the best description of basalt texture?

Basalt is a dark-colored, fine-grained, igneous rock composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals. It most commonly forms as an extrusive rock, such as a lava flow, but can also form in small intrusive bodies, such as an igneous dike or a thin sill. It has a composition similar to gabbro.

How is basalt formed quizlet?

Basalt forms when lava cools quickly at the surface. This quick cooling rate results in vert small mineral grains. The major minerals in basalt are dark-colored silicates that give basalt its dark color.

Which is the best description of the properties of basalt?

basalt, extrusive igneous (volcanic) rock that is low in silica content, dark in colour, and comparatively rich in iron and magnesium. Some basalts are quite glassy (tachylytes), and many are very fine-grained and compact.

Why is basalt important?

Basalt is used in construction (e.g. as building blocks or in the groundwork), making cobblestones (from columnar basalt) and in making statues. Heating and extruding basalt yields stone wool, which has potential to be an excellent thermal insulator.

What are 3 facts about basalt?

Basalt is a common extrusive rock found on Mars, Earth, and Venus. Basaltic rocks are also found on Earth's surface as they erupt in the form of lava. More than half of the ocean floor is basalt. It is one of the most abundant volcanic rocks on Earth.Mar 3, 2022

How do you identify basalt?

Basalt appears black or grayish-black, sometimes with a greenish or reddish crust. Feel its texture. Basalt consists of a fine and even-grain. The dense rock has no crystals or minerals discernible to the naked eye.Apr 24, 2017

Which term describes the composition of basalt?

Which term describes the composition of a basalt? -Felsic.

What minerals would you expect to occur in basalt explain your answer?

Basalt is composed of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals, including augite, titaniferous magnetite, olivine, leucite, and others.May 5, 2017

What is basalt quizlet?

Basalt is a dark-colored, fine-grained, igneous rock composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals. It most commonly forms as an extrusive rock, such as a lava flow, but can also form in small intrusive bodies, such as an igneous dike or a thin sill. It has a composition similar to gabbro.

How do tectonic plate motions affect the rock cycle?

Plate tectonics play a major role in the rock cycle because it is involved in the formation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Plate movements can push the rocks to sink back into the mantle so they can melt and become molten rock or magma.Jan 4, 2022