Consider the following statements about rock formation: 1. Magnetical...
- This comes due to geomagnetism. Magnetic response of rocks is determined by amounts and susceptibilities of constituent minerals. Sedimentary rocks have very low susceptibility to the magnetic field of Earth. So, there is little alignment in their constituents in response to Earth’s magnetic field. For ultramafic rocks, it is the highest.
- Foliation refers to repetitive layering in metamorphic rocks. When the pressure is greater in one direction than in the others (directed pressure), it causes the minerals in the original rock to reorient themselves with the long and flat minerals aligning perpendicular to the greatest pressure direction. This reduces the overall pressure on the rock and gives it a striped look.
View all questions of this test
Consider the following statements about rock formation: 1. Magnetical...
The correct answer is option 'C': Both 1 and 2.
Explanation:
1. Magnetically susceptible minerals get aligned to the Earth’s magnetic field during the period of rock formation.
- This statement is correct. Certain minerals, such as magnetite, contain magnetic properties and can align themselves with the Earth's magnetic field during the formation of rocks. As magma cools and solidifies, these minerals can become aligned and preserve the magnetic field direction at the time of their formation. This phenomenon is known as paleomagnetism and is used by geologists to study the Earth's magnetic history and plate tectonics.
2. Foliated metamorphic rocks are formed within the Earth’s interior under extremely high pressures that arc unequal in different directions.
- This statement is also correct. Foliation is a texture exhibited by certain metamorphic rocks, where minerals are aligned in parallel layers or bands. This alignment is a result of the extreme pressures and temperatures experienced during metamorphism. The unequal pressures in different directions cause the minerals to recrystallize and align perpendicular to the direction of highest stress, resulting in the characteristic foliation. Examples of foliated metamorphic rocks include slate, schist, and gneiss.
In conclusion, both statements are correct. Magnetically susceptible minerals can align with the Earth's magnetic field during rock formation, and foliated metamorphic rocks form under unequal pressures within the Earth's interior. These processes provide valuable information about the Earth's history and geological processes.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.