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Question

Which one of the following is an ultramafic rock?

The correct answer is
Dunite

The question asks to identify the ultramafic rock from the given options. Ultramafic rocks are igneous rocks composed primarily of silicate minerals rich in magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe), with very low silica (SiO2) content. They typically contain minerals like olivine and pyroxene.

Rock Type Identification

  • Granite: This is a felsic intrusive igneous rock, characterized by high silica content and abundant quartz and feldspar. It is not ultramafic.
  • Gabbro: This is a mafic intrusive igneous rock. While it contains mafic minerals like pyroxene and plagioclase feldspar, it has a higher silica content than ultramafic rocks.
  • Dunite: This is an ultramafic intrusive igneous rock. It is almost entirely composed (>90%) of olivine, a magnesium iron silicate mineral. This fits the definition of an ultramafic rock.
  • Basalt: This is a mafic extrusive igneous rock, chemically equivalent to gabbro but with a finer grain size due to rapid cooling. It is not ultramafic.

Conclusion on Ultramafic Rocks

Based on the mineral composition, Dunite is the only ultramafic rock among the choices provided.

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Important Questions from Petrology (Ultramafic Rock Identification)

  1. A coarse-grained igneous rock consists of 55% olivine, 25% augite and 20% enstatite. According to the IUGS classification, the rock is
  2. In the IUGS classification diagram for mafic and ultramafic rocks shown below, choose the correct option for the rocks labelled X and Y.

  3. The dominant constituent of ultramafic rocks in the earth's mantle is
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