Q:
How Is Obsidian Formed?
A:
Quick Answer
Obsidian is formed by rapidly cooling molten rock or lava. Obsidian is also called volcanic glass, and it is considered a mineraloid.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Okan Metin
iStock
Getty Images
Full Answer
Examples of the rapid cooling that forms obsidian are lava oozing into a body of water, or lava splashing against something and bouncing into the air. Most obsidian is black; however, it can also be found in other colors. Scientists believe the colors come from other elements mixing in with the molten rock just before the rapid cooling occurs.
Most obsidian found is from volcanic eruptions that occurred within the past few million years. That is because older obsidian has most likely shattered into dust over time, as stated by geology.com.
Learn more about GeologyRelated Questions
-
Q:
What Is Underground Molten Rock Called?
A: Underground molten rock is referred to as magma or lava, which cools to form igneous rock. Igneous rock is important because it gives scientists important ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Is a Plateau Formed?
A: A plateau is formed by a process of geological uplift, either due to the collision of continental plates, pressure from magma below or the burial of land b... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Happens at Constructive Plate Boundaries?
A: Constructive plate boundaries are divergent zones where the Earth forms new crust through the cooling of lava. The Internet Geography website states that m... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
By What Means Can Mechanical Weathering Occur?
A: Mechanical weathering occurs due to situations such as wind, rain, ice or lava that carry away materials. Mechanical weathering is a set of geological phen... Full Answer >Filed Under:
