Consider the following statements about igneous rocks: 1. They are ge...
- Igneous rocks are formed by solidification of magma and crystals arc formed upon cooling.
- Sedimentary rocks contain fossils. Basaltic rocks which are also the type of igneous rocks are basic due to lower silica content. The development of radiometric dating techniques in the early 20th century allowed scientists to quantitatively measure the absolute ages of rocks and the fossils they host.
Consider the following statements about igneous rocks: 1. They are ge...
Explanation:
Igneous rocks are formed from the solidification of molten material called magma. They are one of the three main types of rocks, along with sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Here is a detailed explanation of the given statements:
1. They are generally crystalline:
- Igneous rocks are formed by the cooling and solidification of molten magma. As the magma cools, the atoms and molecules arrange themselves into a crystalline structure.
- This means that most igneous rocks are composed of interlocking mineral crystals. The size and shape of these crystals depend on the rate of cooling and the composition of the magma.
- However, there are some exceptions to this generalization. In some cases, rapid cooling can prevent the formation of large crystals, resulting in a fine-grained or glassy texture.
2. They occur in layers and often contain fossils:
- This statement is incorrect. Igneous rocks do not occur in layers and do not contain fossils. Layered rocks are typically sedimentary rocks, which are formed from the deposition and compaction of sediment over time.
- Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, and they are most commonly found in sedimentary rocks. Igneous rocks, being formed from molten material, do not preserve fossils.
3. Igneous rocks are always acidic:
- This statement is incorrect. Igneous rocks can be classified as either acidic or basic (also known as mafic). Acidic rocks have a higher silica content, while basic rocks have a lower silica content.
- The acidity or basicity of an igneous rock is determined by its chemical composition. Acidic rocks, such as granite, have a higher proportion of silica and aluminum, while basic rocks, such as basalt, have a higher proportion of iron and magnesium.
- It is important to note that the acidity or basicity of an igneous rock does not necessarily indicate its level of harmfulness or corrosiveness.
In conclusion:
The correct answer is option 'A' - statement 1 only. Igneous rocks are generally crystalline, but they do not occur in layers, contain fossils, or are always acidic.