ROCKS
THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF THE EARTH
Mining and Exploration
Geology Handbook
Rocks – the building blocks of everything
Rocks in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide
Canada is known for its vast landscapes and rich natural resources, including a wide variety of rocks and minerals. From stunning gemstones to valuable industrial minerals, Canada’s rocks are of great significance both aesthetically and economically. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the types of rocks found in Canada, their characteristics, and their uses.
Geology is the science that deals with the physical history and dynamics of the earth and the rocks it is composed of. Rocks are important – everything we have is derived from mining or grown (in soil which is mostly broken down rocks).
To define what a rock is, we need to look at what makes up a rock.
Elements, as in the periodic table of, are the simplest substances made up of molecules. They cannot be broken down or easily converted into another element. Elements come from stars, all elements heavier than iron (Fe), come from supernovae. Everything is made of elements, We are made from stardust.
When elements combine to form more complex crystalline materials using natural processes, you get minerals. Minerals can be simply an element (gold – Au), or complex (Feldspar – CaAl2Si2O8).
Minerals are defined if and only if they are naturally occurring, crystalline in nature, have a defined chemical structure.
Rocks are combinations of one or more minerals and may contain other compounds with a complicated chemical structure.
Types of Rocks in Canada
Canada is home to a diverse range of rock formations, including igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
mINERALS
The basic building blocks of rocks everywhere. The minerals in each rock tell the story of the history of that rock and the envireonment in which it formed.
Igneous Rocks
Igneous rocks are formed from the solidification of molten rock, also known as magma. They are commonly found in areas with volcanic activity, such as British Columbia’s famous Mount Garibaldi. Some of the most commonly found igneous rocks in Canada include basalt, granite, and pumice.
Sedimentary Rocks
Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of sediment, such as sand, silt, and clay. These rocks can be found in a variety of environments, including riverbanks, lakebeds, and ocean floors. Some of the most commonly found sedimentary rocks in Canada include limestone, sandstone, and shale.
Metamorphic Rocks
Metamorphic rocks are formed from the alteration of pre-existing rocks under high pressure and temperature. This can occur due to tectonic activity or contact with magma. Some of the most commonly found metamorphic rocks in Canada include marble, schist, and gneiss.
Identify and Classify
Basic rock identification and classification.
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BASIC ROCK CLASSIFICATIONS
Of primary importance to the mining world are the two main types of igneous rocks.
Mafic: The dark, heavier rocks. What makes them heavier? Heavier minerals, heavier minerals tend to be the ones most sought after for mining (metals). These rocks form the oceanic crust. with the lighter Felsic continental crust “floating” on top. Mafic rocks are the source of most valuable mineral deposits.
Felsic: Literally lighter rocks, high in silica, form continental crust. Granite is a perfect example.
Of additional importance to the mining world are the three main types of sedimentary rocks.
Chemical: Formed from evaporation of standing water (ex. Salt, Gypsum)
Organic: Organic matter or debris (ex. Chalk, Limestone)
Clastic: Everyday broken down chunks of rock washing down rivers. (ex. Sandstone, Siltstone)
Characteristics of Canadian Rocks
Canadian rocks are known for their unique characteristics, which vary depending on the type of rock and its location. Some of the most notable characteristics include:
- Color: Canadian rocks come in a wide range of colors, including black, gray, white, pink, and green.
- Texture: The texture of Canadian rocks can be smooth, rough, or somewhere in between.
- Hardness: The hardness of Canadian rocks can vary greatly, with some being as soft as talc and others as hard as diamond.
Uses of Canadian Rocks
Canadian rocks have a variety of uses, both aesthetically and industrially. Some of the most common uses include:
- Ornamentation: Many Canadian rocks, such as marble and granite, are used for decorative purposes, including as building materials and sculptures.
- Construction: Canadian rocks such as limestone and sandstone are commonly used as building materials, especially for the construction of roads and buildings.
- Industrial Applications: Canadian rocks, such as feldspar and quartz, are used in a variety of industrial applications, including the production of glass, ceramics, and electronics.
Conclusion
Canadian rocks are a valuable natural resource that offer a wide range of uses and benefits. From stunning gemstones to essential industrial minerals, Canada’s rocks are truly one-of-a-kind and worth exploring. Whether you are a geologist, collector, or simply a lover of nature, Canada’s rocks are sure to impress.