Phonolite and Basalt Definition

Definition of Phonolite and Basalt

The general Phonolite and Basalt definition can be stated as: Phonolite is an uncommon extrusive igneous rock volcanic rock of intermediate chemical composition between felsic and mafic. On the other hand, Basalt is a common extrusive igneous rock formed by the rapid cooling of basaltic lava exposed at or very near the surface of Earth. Along with definition of Phonolite and Basalt, get to know about Properties of Phonolite and Basalt. Get to know more information about Phonolite and Basalt origin and discoverer, etymology and class.

History of Phonolite and Basalt

The history of Phonolite and Basalt 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.

Phonolite and Basalt Origin and Discoverer

Phonolite and Basalt definition gives us a brief idea about the two rocks. In some cases, the definition also gives summary about the Formation of Phonolite and Basalt. In this section, you will know about Phonolite and Basalt Origin and Discoverer. Origin of Phonolite is Unknown whereas Origin of Basalt is Egypt. It is interesting to know the name of Phonolite and Basalt discoverer. The Discoverer of Phonolite is Unknown and the discoverer of Basalt is Georgius Agricola.

Etymology of Phonolite and Basalt

Along with Phonolite and Basalt definition, know more about the etymology of Phonolite and Basalt. Etymology of Phonolite and Basalt gives information about origin and formation of a particular rock. Know more about Formation of Phonolite and Formation of Basalt. The etymology of Phonolite is From the Greek meaning sounding stone because of the metallic sound it produces if an unfractured plate is hit while that of Basalt is From the Greek meaning sounding stone because of the metallic sound it produces if an unfractured plate is hit. The process of formation of rocks defines the class of rock. All the rocks in a class are formed by similar processes. Phonolite and Basalt belong to Igneous Rocks. The sub-class, group and other categories of Phonolite and Basalt are listed below.

For Phonolite,

• Sub-class: Durable Rock and Medium Hardness Rock
• Group: Not applicable
• Other Categories: Fine grained rock and Opaque rock

For Basalt,

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