What information is revealed by magnetism on rocks?(1 point)
Responses
minerals
minerals
age
age
luster
luster
mass
mass
magnets press against rocks. The rocks respond by pushing or pulling on the magnets. By studying the strength and direction of these magnetic forces, scientists can learn about the minerals in the rocks, the age of the rocks, and the rocks' luster and mass.
The information that can be revealed by magnetism on rocks includes:
1. Minerals: Rocks can contain magnetic minerals such as magnetite or hematite. By studying the magnetic properties of rocks, geologists can identify the types of minerals present in the rock.
2. Age: Magnetic minerals in rocks can also provide information about the rock's age. Over time, the Earth's magnetic field has varied, and rocks can preserve the magnetic signature of the time when they formed. By analyzing the magnetic properties of rocks, scientists can determine the age of the rock formation.
3. Luster: Magnetism can sometimes affect the luster of certain minerals. For example, magnetite has a metallic luster due to its magnetic properties. Therefore, observing the luster of a rock can give clues about its magnetic properties.
4. Mass: Magnetism can also affect the mass of rocks. Rocks containing magnetic minerals tend to be slightly heavier than those without magnetic properties. By measuring the mass of a rock, scientists can determine if it contains magnetic minerals.
To reveal this information, scientists use various techniques like magnetic susceptibility measurements, magnetic field measurements, and laboratory analysis. These methods allow them to study the magnetism of rocks and interpret the information it provides about the minerals, age, luster, and mass.