Essentials of Geology, Books a la Carte Edition (12th Edition)
Essentials of Geology, Books a la Carte Edition (12th Edition)
12th Edition
ISBN: 9780321957801
Author: Frederick K. Lutgens, Edward J. Tarbuck, Dennis G. Tasa
Publisher: PEARSON
Question
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Chapter 11, Problem 1GST
To determine

Whether granite or mica is more likely to flow or fold rather than to fracture when subjected to differential stress.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Answer to Problem 1GST

The mica schist is more likely to flow or fold rather than to fracture, when subjected to differential stress.

Explanation of Solution

There are three types of deformations in the rocks namely, elastic deformation, brittle deformation and ductile deformation.

When a rock undergoes differential stress, the rock undergoes various deformations. Granite is a brittle rock. It is rigid and has less weak planes. Therefore, it easily undergoes fracturing rather than folding.

Mica schist is a metamorphic mineral. It has many weak planes. When it is subjected to differential stress, it undergoes deformation at the planes of weakness. Hence it experiences ductile deformation resulting in the flows and folds.

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