Final answer:
While the exact size of the peculiar rock formation is not provided, various methods and comparisons used to estimate the size and characteristics of geological formations are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the importance of context, scale, and perspective in geology.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question attempts to ascertain the size of a peculiar rock formation encountered by a group of young geologists. Unfortunately, the question seems to be missing context or specific reference to determine the correct size category.
When musing about the scale of geologic features, we often use comparative sizing, such as likening celestial bodies to everyday objects for perspective—for instance, if comparing Earth's size to a basketball, we would find the Earth to be much smaller in relative terms.
It is also worth mentioning that the size of sediment grains, like coarse-grained or fine-grained sediments, can influence the preservation of geological features, with smaller grain sizes sometimes more likely to capture detailed impressions.
To infer volume and density, standard geological methods are used. Volume can be determined through displacement methods for irregularly shaped objects, or by measuring dimensions for more standard shapes and applying geometric formulas. The average density is then determined by dividing the mass by the volume.
This approach aligns with the tools and methods selected for measuring characteristics of various objects, where each tool is matched appropriately to the property being measured, for instance, the volume of a milk carton or the weight of an apple.
Moreover, in the context of the given examples, geological formations can be deceptive in size when viewed from a distance, often seeming smaller until closely approached. This perception is highlighted in the scenario where a rock formation 'grew' in apparent size as the distance to it lessened.
Such references to scale, perspective, and comparative sizing in geology can all be construed within educational frameworks, especially when engaging students with tangible examples and hands-on experiences.