type of rock crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "type of rock crossword clue," organized by letter count. Whether you need a quick answer or a detailed explanation, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "type of rock crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LAVA: Molten rock erupted from a volcano.
5 Letters
SHALE: A fine-grained, clastic sedimentary rock.
SLATE: A fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock often used for roofing.
6 Letters
BASALT: A common extrusive igneous rock formed from the rapid cooling of lava.
MARBLE: A metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals, often used in sculpture and building.
7 Letters
GRANITE: A common type of felsic intrusive igneous rock with large, visible grains.
IGNEOUS: One of the three main rock types, formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock.
8 Letters
OBSIDIAN: A naturally occurring volcanic glass formed when lava cools quickly.
11 Letters
SEDIMENTARY: One of the three main rock types, formed from the accumulation or deposition of mineral or organic particles.
METAMORPHIC: One of the three main rock types, formed from the transformation of existing rock types by heat, pressure, or chemical alteration.
More About "type of rock crossword clue"
The term "type of rock" in a crossword clue often refers to one of the three major classifications: igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic. However, it can also point to specific examples within these categories, such as granite, basalt, shale, or marble. The precise answer usually depends on the number of letters provided in the grid and any intersecting clues.
Understanding the basic characteristics of these rock types can greatly assist in solving related clues. Igneous rocks are formed from molten magma or lava; sedimentary rocks form from deposited layers of sediment; and metamorphic rocks are created when existing rocks are transformed by heat, pressure, or chemical processes. Familiarity with common examples of each type, from common building materials to natural geological formations, is a key asset for crossword enthusiasts.
Crossword setters enjoy using geology terms because they offer a rich vocabulary with varying lengths and letter patterns, providing versatile options for puzzle construction. Keep an eye out for synonyms or related terms like "lava flow," "earth material," or "geological formation" as these might also lead you to a rock type answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the exact number of letters required. This is the single most important constraint in crosswords and immediately narrows down possibilities for "type of rock" clues.
- Consider Common Examples: Beyond the main three classifications (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic), think of common rock names like granite, basalt, shale, marble, slate, obsidian, and pumice.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The most reliable way to confirm a "type of rock" answer is to see which letters it shares with crossing words. Even if you're unsure, a few confirmed letters can often reveal the correct rock name.
- Think About Rock Properties: Sometimes the clue hints at a property. For instance, "Volcanic glass" points to OBSIDIAN, or "Building material" might suggest MARBLE or GRANITE.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three main types of rock?
The three main types of rock are igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. They are classified based on their formation processes.
How does a rock's type relate to its properties?
The type of rock dictates many of its properties, such as hardness, density, mineral composition, and how it weathers. For example, igneous rocks are typically hard, while some sedimentary rocks can be quite porous.
Why are different rock types often clued in crosswords?
Rock types are common crossword clues because their names vary in length and often have distinct letter patterns, making them suitable for various puzzle grids. They also represent a fundamental concept in geology, making them broadly recognizable.