layered rock crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "layered rock crossword clue" in your puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your geological and crossword knowledge.
Solutions for "layered rock crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SHALE: A fine-grained, clastic sedimentary rock composed of compacted clay and silt, known for its ability to split into thin layers along bedding planes.
6 Letters
STRATA: The plural form of stratum, referring to distinct layers of rock, soil, or similar material, especially those found in geological formations.
8 Letters
FOLIATED: Describes a type of metamorphic rock texture where intense pressure causes minerals to align in parallel planes, resulting in a distinct layered or banded appearance.
More About "layered rock crossword clue"
Layered rocks are a fascinating subject in geology, offering clues about Earth's ancient environments and processes. The most common type of layered rock is sedimentary rock, which forms from the accumulation and compaction of sediments (like sand, mud, or organic matter) over millions of years. Each layer, or stratum, can represent a different period of deposition, potentially preserving fossils or environmental indicators from the time it was formed.
Beyond sedimentary rocks, certain metamorphic rocks also display layering, a characteristic known as foliation. This occurs when rocks are subjected to immense pressure and heat, causing their mineral grains to reorient themselves perpendicular to the direction of stress, creating a distinct banded or sheet-like structure. Examples include slate, schist, and gneiss.
Understanding these different types of layered rocks is not just for geologists; it's also a common theme in crosswords, often requiring a good grasp of geological terminology. Knowing terms like 'shale' (a common sedimentary rock), 'strata' (the general term for layers), or 'foliated' (a specific metamorphic texture) can be key to solving related clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Rock Types: When you encounter a clue about "rock," think about the main categories: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Then, consider common examples within those categories that might fit the letter count.
- Look for Plurals: Clues about layers often point to plural answers like "STRATA." Always check if the clue implies a single layer or multiple.
- Think About Processes: Sometimes the clue hints at the process that creates the rock type (e.g., compaction, metamorphism). This can lead you to terms like "FOLIATED" for layered metamorphic rocks.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck, try to solve intersecting clues first. The letters you fill in from other answers can significantly narrow down the possibilities for "layered rock."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of rock is known for its distinct layers?
Sedimentary rocks like shale and sandstone are most commonly known for their distinct layers, or 'strata', which form as sediments accumulate over time. Metamorphic rocks can also exhibit layering, a characteristic called 'foliation'.
How are rock layers formed?
Rock layers are primarily formed through the process of sedimentation, where particles (sediments) settle in water or on land and accumulate in distinct beds. Over vast periods, these layers are compacted and cemented, forming sedimentary rock. In metamorphic rocks, layering can form due to intense pressure and heat causing mineral grains to realign.
What is the geological term for individual rock layers?
The geological term for an individual layer of rock is 'stratum' (plural: 'strata'). The study of these layers and their sequences is known as stratigraphy.