Igneous
Basalt
Basalt
Dark-colored, fine-grained, igneous rock. Hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals.
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Physical properties
Dark-colored, fine-grained, igneous rock. Hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals.
Formation & geological history
Forms from the rapid cooling of basaltic lava exposed at or very near the surface of a planet or moon. Underlies more of Earth's surface than any other rock type.
Uses & applications
Used in construction, as aggregate or crushed stone. Also used for cobblestones and statues.
Geological facts
Basalt is the most common rock type in the Earth's crust. Most ocean floor is made of basalt.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its dark color and fine-grained texture. Found worldwide, particularly in volcanic islands like Hawaii or mid-ocean ridges.
