sedimentary
Laterite
Laterite (iron and aluminum-rich residual soil/rock)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness varies from 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale, rusty red to brownish color, earthy to dull luster, amorphous or porous pisolitic structure, high specific gravity due to iron oxides.
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Physical properties
Hardness varies from 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale, rusty red to brownish color, earthy to dull luster, amorphous or porous pisolitic structure, high specific gravity due to iron oxides.
Formation & geological history
Formed by intense and prolonged weathering of underlying parent rocks in tropical climates with alternating wet and dry seasons, highly prevalent in West Africa.
Uses & applications
Historically used as building blocks for temples and monuments, currently utilized in local road construction and as a source of aluminum and iron ores.
Geological facts
Laterite hardens irreversibly upon exposure to air, making it a durable ancient building material known as 'laterite brick'.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive porous, vesicular texture and reddish-brown coloration rich in iron and aluminum hydroxides.
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