Formation of Chert and Quartzite
Formation
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.
Quartzite forms from sandstone and the mineral quartz being put under extreme heat and pressure.
Mineral Content
Quartz, Silicon
Chlorite, Epidote, Hematite, Kyanite, Magnetite, Muscovite or Illite, Quartz
Compound Content
Silicon Dioxide
Aluminium Oxide, CaO, Iron(III) Oxide, MgO, Sodium Oxide, Silicon Dioxide
Types of Metamorphism
Not Applicable
Burial Metamorphism, Cataclastic Metamorphism, Hydrothermal Metamorphism, Regional Metamorphism
Types of Weathering
Not Applicable
Biological Weathering, Chemical Weathering, Mechanical Weathering
Types of Erosion
Chemical Erosion
Chemical Erosion, Coastal Erosion, Water Erosion, Wind Erosion
Chert and Quartzite Formation
Formation of rocks is a long process and hence, Chert and Quartzite 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 Chert and Quartzite, composition of Chert and Quartzite and their transformation.