Pronunciation: [bˈasɒlts] (IPA) 
Basalts are a type of volcanic rock that typically form from the solidification of lava flows. They are often characterized by their dark color, fine-grained texture, and high density. The spelling of "basalts" can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈbeɪsəlts/, with emphasis on the first syllable. The "s" in "basalts" is silent, and the "a" in the second syllable is pronounced like the "a" in "sat."
Basalts are a type of dark-colored, fine-grained igneous rock that is commonly found in volcanic regions. They are typically composed of minerals such as pyroxene, plagioclase feldspar, and olivine. Basalts are formed when magma (molten rock) rises to the Earth's surface through volcanic eruptions and cools rapidly, solidifying into a solid mass.
The texture of basalts is dense and compact, often exhibiting a uniform appearance due to the small size of the minerals present. They have a relatively low silica content compared to other types of igneous rocks, which accounts for their dark coloration. Basalts can range in color from black to dark gray or brown.
Due to their widespread occurrence, basalts are one of the most abundant rock types on Earth's surface. They can be found forming extensive lava flows or as intrusive dikes and sills beneath the Earth's surface. Basalts are integral components of oceanic crust, forming the majority of the seafloor. They are also present in some continental areas, particularly in regions associated with volcanic activity.
Basalts have a variety of applications and uses. Due to their durability, they are often utilized as construction materials, particularly in road and building foundations. They can also be crushed into gravel or sand and used in concrete production. The vesicular varieties of basalt, which contain gas bubbles or vesicles, can be used as lightweight building stones. Additionally, basalts have significance in scientific research, as they help provide valuable insights into Earth's history and geologic processes.
The word "basalt" is derived from the Latin word "basaltes", which originates from the Ancient Greek term "βάσανος" (basanos). In Greek, "βάσανος" referred to a touchstone or a Lydian stone used to test the quality of gold. Eventually, this term was applied to a type of volcanic rock, which we now know as basalt. The Greek term was likely influenced by the word "βάσις" (basis), meaning "step" or "base", referring to the stone's common occurrence in step-like formations. Over time, the word evolved and was adopted into other languages, such as Latin and subsequently English, in which it retained its original meaning.
