Granulite is a term used in geology to describe a high-grade metamorphic rock that typically occurs in the lower crust of the Earth. It is characterized by its coarse-grained texture and mineral composition. The word "granulite" is derived from the Latin word "granulum," which means grain or small particle, referring to the rock's distinctive grainy appearance.
Granulite is composed of various minerals, including feldspar, garnet, pyroxene, and often hornblende. These minerals are usually visible to the naked eye due to their larger size, which gives the rock its coarse-grained texture. The formation of granulite is usually associated with high temperatures and pressures deep within the Earth's crust, which result in the recrystallization and metamorphism of pre-existing rocks.
The color of granulite can vary greatly, depending on the specific mineral assemblage present. It can range from light-colored, such as white or gray, to darker hues like green, brown, or black. Granulite often exhibits a splintery or granular fracture and has a high degree of hardness.
In terms of geological application, the presence of granulite in an area suggests an extensive history of high-grade metamorphism and may indicate the tectonic processes that led to its formation. Granulite facies rocks are important indicators of deep crustal processes, such as continental collision or subduction zones, and studying them helps scientists gain insights into the Earth's geological history.
In summary, granulite is a coarse-grained metamorphic rock formed in the lower crust, exhibiting a distinctive grainy texture and composed of minerals like feldspar, garnet, pyroxene, and hornblende. It is typically associated with high
