THE STUDY AND ANALYSIS OF IGNEOUS ROCKS

Abstract

A solid foundation in the geological sciences necessitates a thorough understanding of igneous petrology. Sedimentary and metamorphic counterparts, as well as intrusive (plutonic) and extrusive (volcanic) igneous rocks, derive from the inherent outcomes of the crystallization, cooling, and solidification of magma originating from the Earth's deepest realms. Bowen's reaction series elucidates the progression of mineral crystallization and cooling, delineating the variety of minerals formed based on the nature of the parent melts. Igneous rocks are divided into different categories based on their mineralogy and mode of formation, such as felsic, intermediate, mafic, and ultramafic. All significant rocks from each categorized group are described, illustrated, and identified using microscopic thin section examinations. These features include physical and chemical characteristics, grain size, texture, and structures. principal use for each rock.