Question

Difficulty: EasyRock Types, Formation, and Economic Importance

Match each rock in Column I with its corresponding mode of formation or classification in Column II.

  • BasaltFine-grained extrusive igneous rock formed by rapid cooling of surface lava
  • MarbleNon-foliated metamorphic rock produced by thermal metamorphism of limestone
  • CoalOrganically formed sedimentary rock derived from compacted vegetative matter
  • SlateFoliated metamorphic rock resulting from low-grade regional metamorphism of shale

Answer

Basalt matches fine-grained extrusive igneous rock formed by rapid cooling of surface lava; Marble matches non-foliated metamorphic rock produced by thermal metamorphism of limestone; Coal matches organically formed sedimentary rock derived from compacted vegetative matter; Slate matches foliated metamorphic rock resulting from low-grade regional metamorphism of shale.
Each rock is paired strictly with its genesis: Basalt is formed by rapid lava cooling at the surface (extrusive igneous), Marble is created by thermal metamorphism of limestone, Coal originates from compressed organic plant material (sedimentary), and Slate originates from low-grade regional metamorphism of shale.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the formation process of Basalt.
Basalt crystallizes quickly from molten lava on the Earth's exterior.
Extrusive volcanic activity produces fine-grained igneous rock structures.
2
Analyze the transformation of Marble.
Marble forms from limestone exposed to geothermal heat.
Thermal metamorphism converts sedimentary limestone into crystalline calcite rock.
3
Analyze the origin of Coal.
Coal accumulates from decayed organic plant deposits in swampy conditions.
Accumulation and compaction of plant material form organic sedimentary rocks.
4
Analyze the origin of Slate.
Slate develops from shale under mild metamorphic pressure.
Low-grade regional metamorphism realigns clay particles within shale to form slate.

Key Concept

Classification of rocks based on their origin, parent material, and formation processes.
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