crossword clue volcanic glass – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "crossword clue volcanic glass" by Letter Count
8 Letters
OBSIDIAN: A naturally occurring volcanic glass formed as an extrusive igneous rock, typically black or dark in color, and with a characteristic conchoidal fracture. It forms from rapidly cooling lava, which prevents the formation of large mineral crystals.
More About "volcanic glass"
Volcanic glass, most commonly known as obsidian, is a fascinating natural material. It forms when felsic lava extruded from a volcano cools very rapidly with minimal crystal growth. This rapid solidification is why it lacks a crystalline structure, making it a true glass rather than a mineral.
Obsidian has been prized by cultures throughout history for its sharp edges, making it ideal for tools, weapons, and even surgical scalpels. Its unique conchoidal fracture (shell-like breakage) is a distinctive characteristic. While black is the most common color, impurities can lead to beautiful variations like "snowflake obsidian" (with white crystal inclusions) or "rainbow obsidian" (exhibiting an iridescent sheen).
Beyond obsidian, other forms of volcanic glass exist, such as pumice and scoria, which are highly vesicular (full of gas bubbles) and less dense. Perlite and tachylite are also examples, each with their own unique properties and compositions, all stemming from the rapid cooling of molten rock.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Scientific Terms: Clues related to natural phenomena, geology, or scientific terms often have specific, well-known answers like "OBSIDIAN." If the clue sounds scientific, think about the most direct scientific term.
- Check Letter Count: Always use the given letter count to narrow down your options immediately. For "volcanic glass," knowing it's an 8-letter word can quickly lead you to OBSIDIAN.
- Look for Synonyms or Attributes: Sometimes clues describe an attribute rather than the direct object. "Glassy," "sharp-edged," or "igneous" could all point towards volcanic glass.
- Think Broadly, Then Narrow Down: Start by brainstorming general concepts related to the clue, then try to think of specific examples that fit the letter count and any crossing letters.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is volcanic glass?
Volcanic glass is a natural glass formed by the rapid cooling of molten rock (lava) without sufficient time for crystal growth. Obsidian is the most common and well-known example of volcanic glass.
Is obsidian the only type of volcanic glass?
While obsidian is the most prominent type, other volcanic glasses exist, including pumice (which can be very glassy and porous), perlite, and tachylite. They all form under similar rapid cooling conditions but have different compositions or textures.
How can knowing scientific terms help in crosswords?
Crossword clues often delve into specific domains like science, geography, or history. Familiarity with scientific terms, especially those related to nature (like geology, botany, or zoology), can significantly aid in quickly identifying answers for clues related to those fields, such as 'volcanic glass'.