Crystal size can be used to help distinguish
A) clastic from chemical sedimentary rocks.
B) hydrothermal from chemical rocks.
C) volcanic from plutonic igneous rocks.
D) regional from contact metamorphic rocks.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Crystal size is a useful tool in distinguishing volcanic from plutonic igneous rocks. Plutonic igneous rocks have larger crystals due to their slower cooling and solidification within the Earth's crust, while volcanic rocks have smaller crystals or glassy textures due to their rapid cooling on the Earth's surface. Crystal size is not typically used in distinguishing clastic from chemical sedimentary rocks, hydrothermal from chemical rocks, or regional from contact metamorphic rocks.

Crystal Size Can Be Used to Help Distinguish