sedimentary
Bituminous Coal
Organic Sedimentary Rock (Carbon-based)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 0.5-2.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Black or dark brown, Luster: Dull to sub-metallic, Crystal Structure: Amorphous (organic matter), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 1.2-1.5
- Hardness
- 0
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Bituminous Coal in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 0.5-2.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Black or dark brown, Luster: Dull to sub-metallic, Crystal Structure: Amorphous (organic matter), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 1.2-1.5
Formation & geological history
Formed through the burial and heating of peat under high pressure over millions of years (primarily Carboniferous era). It is a stage of coalification between lignite and anthracite.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for electricity generation (thermal coal) and steel production (coking coal). Occasionally used by blacksmiths or for historical recreation.
Geological facts
It is the most abundant rank of coal found in the United States. It contains between 45% and 86% carbon. In some cultures, it was given as a token of luck during New Year celebrations.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its layered (banded) appearance, dull black color, and the fact that it soils the fingers when handled. Found in sedimentary basins such as the Appalachian region.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary