Slow cooling below the surface results in?

Prepare for your Introduction to Physical Geology Exam. Tackle diverse topics with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Equip yourself with knowledge about Earth's physical processes and surface features. Ace your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Slow cooling below the surface results in?

Explanation:
Cooling rate controls crystal size in igneous rocks. When magma cools slowly beneath the surface, atoms have time to migrate and join into growing crystals, so minerals become larger and the rock has a coarse-grained texture. This slow, underground cooling is typical of intrusive rocks like granite. If cooling is rapid at or near the surface, many small crystals form or a glassy texture appears if cooling is almost instantaneous. Therefore, slow cooling below the surface results in larger mineral crystals.

Cooling rate controls crystal size in igneous rocks. When magma cools slowly beneath the surface, atoms have time to migrate and join into growing crystals, so minerals become larger and the rock has a coarse-grained texture. This slow, underground cooling is typical of intrusive rocks like granite. If cooling is rapid at or near the surface, many small crystals form or a glassy texture appears if cooling is almost instantaneous. Therefore, slow cooling below the surface results in larger mineral crystals.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy