23.6k views
0 votes
What is the term for a finer-grained mass of material in which larger grains, crystals, or clasts are embedded?

a) Conglomerate

b) Breccia

c) Matrix

d) Magma

User OXXY
by
7.7k points

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The term for a finer-grained mass of material with embedded larger grains or crystals is called the matrix. It is the background material within which crystals or clasts are set.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term for a finer-grained mass of material in which larger grains, crystals, or clasts are embedded is called the matrix. In geological terms, this matrix or ground mass forms the finer-grained background in which the larger crystals, known as phenocrysts, are embedded. Porphyritic textures in igneous rocks, for instance, occur when coarse crystals are situated in a fine background which showcases a contrast in crystal sizes. Similarly, in the context of clastic rocks or composite materials, the matrix is the substance in which larger particles are dispersed.

User Rupi
by
8.0k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.