Properties of Basalt

Physical Properties of Basalt

Physical properties of rocks are used to identify the type of rocks and to discover more about them. There are various physical properties of Basalt like Hardness, Grain Size, Fracture, Streak, Porosity, Luster, Strength etc which defines it. The physical properties of Basalt rock are vital in determining its Basalt Texture and Basalt Uses.

Hardness and Strength of Basalt

The physical properties of Basalt depend on its formation. Physical properties of rocks play an important role in determining its applications in various fields. Rocks are rated on the on the Moh's Hardness Scale which rates the rocks on the scale from 1 to 10. Rocks with hardness 1-3 are soft rocks from 3-6 are medium hardness rocks and 6-10 are hard rocks. The hardness of Basalt is 6 whereas its compressive strength is 37.40 N/mm². Streak is the color of rock when it is crushed or powdered. The streak of Basalt is white to grey whereas its fracture is conchoidal. Luster of Basalt is the interaction of light with the surface of Basalt. Luster of Basalt is not available. Basalt cleavage is not available. The specific gravity of Basalt is 2.8-3. Basalt is opaque in nature whereas its toughness is 2.3. You can also know all the list of rocks in Opaque Rocks, Translucent Rocks and Transparent Rocks.