Formation of Chert and Diatomite

Chert

Diatomite

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Formation

Mineral Content

Compound Content

Metamorphism

Types of Metamorphism

Weathering

Types of Weathering

Erosion

Types of Erosion

Chert forms when microcrystals of silicon dioxide grow within soft sediments that become limestone or chalk. The chert formation can be either of chemical or biological origin.

Quartz, Silicon

Silicon Dioxide

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Chemical Erosion

Diatomite rock formed from the skeletal remains of single celled plants called diatoms. When diatoms die, their skeletal remains sink to the bottom of lakes and oceans etc. hence forming diatomite deposit.

Calcite, Clay, Clay Minerals, Quartz, Sand

Ca, NaCl, CaO

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Biological Weathering, Chemical Weathering, Mechanical Weathering

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Chemical Erosion, Coastal Erosion, Wind Erosion

Chert and Diatomite Formation

Formation of rocks is a long process and hence, Chert and Diatomite formation sounds very interesting. According to the formation, all rocks are divided into :Igneous Rocks, Sedimentary 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 Chert and Diatomite, composition of Chert and Diatomite and their transformation.