Gourt > Science > Earth Sciences > Geology > Rocks and Minerals > Igneous Petrology
Petrology is a field of geology which focuses on the study of rocks and the conditions by which they form. There are three branches of petrology, corresponding to the three types of rocks: igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary. The word petrology itself comes from the Greek word "petra", meaning rock.
- Igneous petrology focuses on the composition and texture of igneous rocks (rocks such as granite or basalt which have crystallized from molten rock or magma). Igneous rocks include volcanic and plutonic rocks.
- Sedimentary petrology focuses on the composition and texture of sedimentary rocks (rocks such as sandstone or limestone which consist of sedimentary particles bound together in a matrix of finer material).
- Metamorphic petrology focuses on the composition and texture of metamorphic rocks (rocks such as slate or marble which started out as sedimentary or igneous rocks but which have undergone chemical, mineralogical or textural changes due to extremes of pressure, temperature or both).
Petrology utilizes the classical fields of mineralogy, microscopic petrography, and chemical analyses to describe the composition and texture of rocks. Modern petrologists also include the principles of geochemistry and geophysics through the studies of geochemical trends and cycles and the use of thermodynamic data and experiments to better understand the origins of rocks.
More on [ Petrology ]
I'm excited for Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology like you don't even know.
galaxyatwar (Derek H.) Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:41:50 -0000
I'm excited for Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology like you don't even know.
Geokem - Online publication with brief descriptions of most types of terrestrial and lunar igneous rocks, their regional distribution and classification, and examples of their geochemical trends and fingerprints
Meta Description: [ A study of geochemistry through the use of standardised graphs. ]
Greg Finn, Brock University - Page with links to course summaries for Petrology and Petrography, and related coursework.
Northwest Obsidian Research Lab - Offers a variety of analytical services related to obsidian trace element characterization (sourcing) studies, obsidian hydration studies, and obsidian source studies, primarily in the context of archaeological research.
Pegmatite International - Information on the mineralogy and petrology of pegmatites including an online publication and links to pegmatite-related sites.
Meta Description: [ Welcome to Pegmatite International, a site devoted to the mineralogy, geochemistry, petrogenesis, and economic occurrences of pegmatites and related rocks. The site offers a wealth of information, including photos, references and links for ]
Rob's Granite Page - This site is devoted to granite petrology with an emphasis on the Llano Uplift granites of central Texas. Also includes links to research, meetings and other scientists.
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