Basalt (UK: / ˈbæsɒlt, - ɔːlt, - əlt /; [1][2] US: / bəˈsɔːlt, ˈbeɪsɔːlt /) [3] is an aphanitic (fine-grained) extrusive igneous rock formed from the rapid cooling of low- viscosity lava rich in magnesium and iron (mafic lava) exposed at or very near the surface of a rocky planet or moon.

Basalt is a dark-colored, fine-grained, igneous rock composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals. It most commonly forms as an extrusive rock, such as a lava flow, but can also form in small intrusive bodies, such as an igneous dike or a thin sill.

Apr 23, 2023 · Definition, composition, and characteristics of basalt: Basalt is a fine-grained volcanic rock that forms from the rapid cooling of lava at or near the Earth’s surface.

Basalt is an extrusive igneous rock composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar and large amounts of mafic minerals like pyroxene. It has an aphanitic texture, meaning its interlocking crystals cannot be seen by the naked eye.

Apr 17, 2025 · Basalt, extrusive igneous (volcanic) rock that is low in silica content, dark in color, and comparatively rich in iron and magnesium. Basalts may be broadly classified on a chemical and petrographic basis into two main groups: the tholeiitic and the alkali basalts.

Basalt is a fine-grained, dark-colored igneous rock that makes up over 90% of the Earth's volcanic rock and covers vast areas of the ocean floor. It's formed from the rapid cooling of molten lava, often at mid-ocean ridges or hotspots.

Aug 17, 2023 · What is basalt, and what does it look like? Basalt rock is fine-grained, dark-colored volcanic rock with essentially Mg-rich plagioclase and augite. It is basic or low in silica (42-52 …

Explore the strength and versatility of basalt, a volcanic rock with widespread uses in construction, industrial applications, and art. Learn about its formation, types, famous locations, and how to care for basalt in this detailed guide.

Basalt is a dark-colored, dense rock composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene. It is the most common rock type found in oceanic crust and is an important component of the Earth’s continental crust.

Basalt is an extrusive igneous or volcanic rock that has a low silica content, dark in colour, and is very rich in iron and magnesium. Basalt rock is mainly composed of pyroxene, olivine, and plagioclase and is the most common rock on the earth's surface. The texture of basalt rocks is coarsely porous as those holes are left by gas bubbles.