17.2k views
0 votes
Place the following events in sequence:

A) Mineral grains are formed
B) A volcano erupts
C) Lava begins cooling

User Peterc
by
8.5k points

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The sequence of events after a volcanic eruption related to the formation of igneous rocks is: first, the volcano erupts, followed by lava cooling on the earth's surface, and finally, the formation of mineral grains as the lava solidifies into igneous rock.

Step-by-step explanation:

To correctly place the events in sequence related to the formation of igneous rocks due to volcanic activity, we must understand the processes involved:

  1. B) A volcano erupts: This is the initial stage where magma is expelled from the earth's interior.
  2. C) Lava begins cooling: After the eruption, lava flows onto the surface and starts to lose heat to the surrounding environment.
  3. A) Mineral grains are formed: As the lava cools, the rates of cooling affect the crystal size of the minerals that form, eventually resulting in solidified igneous rock.

It is important to note that a basaltic eruption produces lava that moves quickly and can cover large distances. Once lava is exposed at the surface, it cools at a faster rate compared to magma that cools slowly beneath the earth's surface, leading to small-grained minerals. In contrast, slow cooling allows for the growth of large mineral grains, creating coarse-grained rocks known as intrusive or plutonic rocks. Therefore, the sequence of events for the creation of igneous rocks after a volcanic eruption is volcano eruption, lava cooling, and then mineral grain formation.

User Kjetil Watnedal
by
8.2k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.