Formation of Chalk and Shale

Chalk

Shale

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1 Formation

1.1 Formation

Chalk is formed from lime mud, which accumulates on the sea floor which is then transformed into rock by geological processes.

Shale forms when very fine-grained clay particles are deposited in water which settle at the bottom of water bodies. They are later compacted hence forming shale.

1.2 Composition

1.2.1 Mineral Content

Calcite, Clay, Clay Minerals, Quartz, Sand

Albite, Biotite, Calcite, Chert, Chlorite, Dolomite, Hematite, Micas, Muscovite or Illite, Pyrite, Quartz, Silica, Sulfides

1.2.2 Compound Content

Ca, NaCl, CaO

Ca, Fe, Mg, Silicon Dioxide, Sodium

1.3 Transformation

1.3.1 Metamorphism

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1.3.2 Types of Metamorphism

Not Applicable

1.3.3 Weathering

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1.3.4 Types of Weathering

Biological Weathering, Chemical Weathering

Biological Weathering, Chemical Weathering, Mechanical Weathering

1.3.5 Erosion

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1.3.6 Types of Erosion

Chemical Erosion, Coastal Erosion, Water Erosion

Chemical Erosion, Coastal Erosion, Glacier Erosion

Chalk and Shale Formation

Formation of rocks is a long process and hence, Chalk and Shale formation sounds very interesting. According to the formation, all rocks are divided into :Igneous Rocks, Fossil Rocks and Metamorphic Rocks. Igneous rocks form by crystallization of magma or lava. The magma is made up of various components of pre-existing rocks which have been subjected to melting either at subduction zones or within the Earth's mantle. Igneous rocks are generally seen at mid ocean ridges or in intra-plate hotspots. Sedimentary rocks are formed when sediments accumulate gradually. As the sediments are buried they get compacted as more and more material is deposited on top. Eventually the sediments become so dense that they form a rock. Metamorphic rocks are rocks which once existed as igneous or sedimentary rocks but have been subjected to varying degrees of pressure and heat within the Earth's crust. Get to know all about formation of Chalk and Shale, composition of Chalk and Shale and their transformation.