Amphibolite is described as regionally metamorphosed and nonfoliated, consisting principally of which minerals?

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Study for the ASBOG Fundamentals of Geology exam. Access flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and understand key geologic principles. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Amphibolite is described as regionally metamorphosed and nonfoliated, consisting principally of which minerals?

Explanation:
Amphibolite rocks are defined by their mineral makeup, not by textures alone. When rocks metamorphose regionally to amphibolite facies, the stable, dominant minerals are an amphibole (typically hornblende) and plagioclase feldspar. This hornblende–plagioclase pairing gives the rock its characteristic dark, mafic look and is the defining feature of amphibolite. Other rock types emphasize different minerals—soapstone is talc-rich, granulite contains pyroxene and related minerals, etc.—so the hornblende and plagioclase composition best matches amphibolite.

Amphibolite rocks are defined by their mineral makeup, not by textures alone. When rocks metamorphose regionally to amphibolite facies, the stable, dominant minerals are an amphibole (typically hornblende) and plagioclase feldspar. This hornblende–plagioclase pairing gives the rock its characteristic dark, mafic look and is the defining feature of amphibolite. Other rock types emphasize different minerals—soapstone is talc-rich, granulite contains pyroxene and related minerals, etc.—so the hornblende and plagioclase composition best matches amphibolite.

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