igneous rock crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "igneous rock crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
BASALT: A common, dark, fine-grained volcanic rock, often forming lava flows.
PUMICE: A very light and porous volcanic rock formed when molten rock cools rapidly, often floats on water.
GABBRO: A dark, coarse-grained intrusive igneous rock, chemically equivalent to basalt, found in oceanic crust.
7 Letters
GRANITE: A common, light-colored, coarse-grained intrusive igneous rock, used widely in construction.
8 Letters
OBSIDIAN: A naturally occurring volcanic glass formed as an extrusive igneous rock, known for its sharp edges.
More About "igneous rock crossword clue"
Igneous rocks are one of the three main rock types, alongside sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Their formation from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava) gives them unique characteristics that often feature in crossword clues. Depending on where they form, they can be intrusive (cooling slowly beneath the Earth's surface, like Granite) or extrusive (cooling rapidly on the surface, like Basalt).
The variety in their composition, texture, and origin provides a rich source for crossword setters. From the porous and light Pumice to the dark and glassy Obsidian, each type of igneous rock offers distinct properties that can be hinted at in a clue. Understanding these basic geological concepts can significantly boost your crossword-solving skills, especially when faced with science or nature-themed puzzles.
These rocks are not just scientific curiosities; they have played significant roles in human history, from tool-making with obsidian to construction with granite. This real-world relevance also makes them popular subjects for clues, connecting scientific terms to everyday knowledge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Context: For geology clues, look for words indicating formation (e.g., "volcanic," "molten"), texture ("glassy," "porous"), or common uses ("building material," "sharp tool").
- Consider Letter Count First: If you have an idea of the answer but aren't sure, matching it to the provided letter count is often the quickest way to confirm. Our answer sections are sorted by length for this reason.
- Check Cross-Referencing Letters: Always use letters from intersecting words to narrow down possibilities. Even one confirmed letter can rule out many incorrect answers for a specific length.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: Sometimes a clue isn't direct. "Igneous rock" might hint at "volcano" or "lava" if the answer is short, or specific types like "Basalt" or "Granite" if longer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines an igneous rock?
Igneous rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava). This process can happen either beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive, like granite) or above it through volcanic eruptions (extrusive, like basalt).
Why are rock types common answers in crosswords?
Rock types and geological terms are frequently used in crosswords because they offer a diverse vocabulary with distinct spellings and often specific characteristics that can be hinted at. They allow for clues that can be scientific, descriptive, or even refer to their common uses, making them versatile for puzzle constructors.
How can I quickly identify igneous rock crossword answers?
Look for clues mentioning 'volcanic,' 'molten,' 'magma,' 'lava,' 'cooled rock,' or specific textures like 'glassy,' 'porous,' or 'fine-grained.' Common answers include BASALT, GRANITE, PUMICE, and OBSIDIAN. Also, consider the letter count and any intersecting letters you already have.