igneous
Basalt Pebble
Extrusive Igneous Rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, dark gray to black color, fine-grained aphanitic texture, dull luster.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, dark gray to black color, fine-grained aphanitic texture, dull luster.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of low-viscosity lava rich in iron and magnesium exposed at or near the Earth's surface.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction aggregate, railroad ballast, and sometimes as tumbled ornamental stones.
Geological facts
Basalt is the most common rock type in the Earth's crustal portions underlying the ocean basins and forms much of the lunar maria.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its dark, heavy, fine-grained appearance, commonly found along riverbeds and coastlines where water has smoothed it.
