An aphanitic (fine-grained) igneous rock is classified as basalt when its QAPF fraction is composed of less than 10% feldspathoid and less than 20% quartz, and plagioclase makes up …

Basalt is a dark-colored, fine-grained, igneous rock composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals. It most commonly forms as an extrusive rock, such as a lava flow, but can also form …

Nov 12, 2025 · Basalt, extrusive igneous (volcanic) rock that is low in silica content, dark in color, and comparatively rich in iron and magnesium. Basalts may be broadly classified on a …

Apr 10, 2018 · Basalt is the most abundant volcanic rock on Earth, covering more than 90% of the ocean floor and large continental regions shaped by ancient lava flows. It forms when mafic …

Basalt is defined as a fine-grained, dark-colored igneous rock composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals, with or without olivine. It is formed from the rapid cooling of basaltic …

Dec 14, 2012 · Basalt is a very common dark-colored volcanic rock composed of calcic plagioclase (usually labradorite), clinopyroxene (augite) and iron ore (titaniferous magnetite). …

Jul 25, 2025 · Discover basalt rock—Earth's dark, fine‑grained volcanic workhorse. See how it forms, where to find it, and its many uses from roads to rock‑wool insulation.

Basalt is a hard, black volcanic rock with less than about 52 weight percent silica (SiO2). Because of basalt's low silica content, it has a low viscosity (resistance to flow). Therefore, basaltic lava …

Basalt is a fine-grained, dark-colored igneous rock that forms from the rapid cooling of lava at or near the Earth's surface. It is the most common type of volcanic rock and is primarily …

Apr 10, 2024 · Basalt is a massive, dense, fine-grained, dark-colored volcanic rock with mainly calcic plagioclase, augite, and other minor minerals.