Schist blurb sheet

Structure

Schist is a metamorphic rock that forms from the recrystallization of other rocks under high pressure and temperature. It is composed of a combination of minerals such as mica, quartz, feldspar, and amphibole.

Type

Metamorphic
 

Physical Properties of Schist

• Color: Ranges from gray, brown, green, or black, depending on its mineral composition.
• Texture: A medium to coarse-grained texture with visible layers or bands.
• Hardness: 3 to 7 on the Mohs scale, depending on its mineral composition.
• Density: Ranges from 2.5 to 3.2 grams per cubic centimetre.
• Cleavage: Has a strong cleavage, which means it can be easily split into thin, flat sheets. 

General Properties of Schist

• Durability: A durable rock that can withstand weathering and erosion.
• Foliated: A foliated rock, which means it has visible layers or bands of minerals that are aligned parallel to the direction of pressure during metamorphism.
• Heat Resistance: Has good heat resistance and can be used in high-temperature applications.
• Chemical Resistance: Is resistant to most acids and alkalis.

 

Uses of Schist

• Building Stone: Used as a decorative stone in building facades, walls, and flooring.
• Roofing: Used as a roofing material due to its durability and weather resistance.
• Sculpture: Used for carving sculptures due to its relative softness compared to other rocks.
• Industrial Uses: Can be used as a source of mica and graphite for industrial applications.
• Landscaping: Used as a decorative element in landscaping, such as for walls, steps, and garden features.
• Metamorphic Studies: Studied by geologists to understand the processes of metamorphism and the history of the earth's crust.