A mineral within a metamorphic rock that can be used to narrowly constrain the temperature and pressure of rock formation is termed a (n)________ mineral.
A) thermal
B) index
C) mafic
D) halide

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Index minerals are minerals that are commonly used to determine the temperature and pressure conditions of metamorphic rock formation. By analyzing the presence and abundance of these minerals, geologists can determine the grade and intensity of metamorphism the rock has experienced. Thermal minerals, on the other hand, are minerals that are primarily used to determine the temperature of a system, but not necessarily the conditions under which a rock formed. Mafic minerals are a group of minerals that are rich in magnesium and iron and can be found in both volcanic and plutonic rocks. Halides are a group of minerals that are characterized by the presence of a halogen ion, such as chlorine or fluorine.

A Mineral Within a Metamorphic Rock That Can Be Used