Bowen's Reaction Series and Igneous Rock Composition

Front

What is Bowen's Reaction Series?

Back

A sequence that illustrates the order in which minerals crystallize from cooling magma.

Front

What mineral crystallizes first in Bowen's Reaction Series?

Back

Olivine.

Front

What type of rocks are granitic (felsic) rocks?

Back

Light colored igneous rocks rich in silica.

Front

What mineral crystallizes first as magma cools, pyroxene or quartz?

Back

Pyroxene.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and mineral crystallization?

Back

Minerals that crystallize at higher temperatures tend to be low in silicon.

Front

What mineral melts first as rock heats up?

Back

Potassium Feldspar.

Front

What are mafic rocks?

Back

Igneous rocks that are dark colored and rich in iron and magnesium.

Front

What is the significance of the cooling rate of magma?

Back

It affects the size of the crystals formed in igneous rocks.

Front

What is the difference between intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks?

Back

Intrusive rocks form from magma that cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface, while extrusive rocks form from lava that cools quickly on the surface.

Front

What is the role of silica in igneous rock composition?

Back

Silica content influences the color and viscosity of the magma.