Which component is typically found in granitic rocks?

Study for Texas AandM University GEOL101 Exam. Explore geology concepts with multiple choice questions, hints, and detailed explanations. Enhance your readiness for success!

Granitic rocks are predominantly composed of several minerals, with quartz being a major component. This silicate mineral contributes to the light color and overall composition of granitic rocks, giving them their distinctive coarse-grained texture. The presence of quartz indicates that the rock has undergone a significant degree of crystallization and cooling from molten magma. This mineral is highly resistant to weathering and erosion, which further supports the stability of granitic formations in various geological settings. In contrast, basalt is a fine-grained igneous rock typically found in volcanic regions and does not comprise granitic compositions. Clay is a product of the weathering of rocks and minerals and is not a direct component of granite. Sandstone, being a sedimentary rock formed from consolidated sand, differs greatly from granitic rocks in both origin and mineral composition. Thus, the identification of quartz as a key mineral in granitic rocks highlights its significance in their formation and classification.

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