Dunite and Variolite Definition

Definition of Dunite and Variolite

The general Dunite and Variolite definition can be stated as: Dunite is a green to brownish coarse-grained igneous rock mainly consisting of olivine. On the other hand, Variolites are a group of dark green basic igneous rocks which exhibit pale colored spots, or spherules, especially on weathered surfaces, that give them a pockmarked appearance. Along with definition of Dunite and Variolite, get to know about Properties of Dunite and Variolite. Get to know more information about Dunite and Variolite origin and discoverer, etymology and class.

History of Dunite and Variolite

The history of Dunite and Variolite gives information about where the rock was found and who was its discoverer. Almost each and every aspect of Earth's history is recorded in rocks be it the volcanoes which were erupted or the plants, animals and organisms which are now extinct, as rocks are present from millions of years.

Dunite and Variolite Origin and Discoverer

Dunite and Variolite definition gives us a brief idea about the two rocks. In some cases, the definition also gives summary about the Formation of Dunite and Variolite. In this section, you will know about Dunite and Variolite Origin and Discoverer. Origin of Dunite is New Zealand whereas Origin of Variolite is France. It is interesting to know the name of Dunite and Variolite discoverer. The Discoverer of Dunite is Ferdinand von Hochstetter and the discoverer of Variolite is Unknown.

Etymology of Dunite and Variolite

Along with Dunite and Variolite definition, know more about the etymology of Dunite and Variolite. Etymology of Dunite and Variolite gives information about origin and formation of a particular rock. Know more about Formation of Dunite and Formation of Variolite. The etymology of Dunite is From the name of Dun Mountain, New Zealand, + -ite1 while that of Variolite is From the name of Dun Mountain, New Zealand, + -ite1. The process of formation of rocks defines the class of rock. All the rocks in a class are formed by similar processes. Dunite and Variolite belong to Igneous Rocks. The sub-class, group and other categories of Dunite and Variolite are listed below.

For Dunite,

• Sub-class: Durable Rock and Medium Hardness Rock
• Group: Plutonic
• Other Categories: Coarse grained rock and Opaque rock

For Variolite,

• Sub-class: Durable Rock and Hard Rock
• Group: Volcanic
• Other Categories: Opaque rock