{Rocks} difference between sandstone and slate?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the differences between sandstone and slate, focusing on their classifications as sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, respectively. Participants explore how to visually distinguish between the two types of rocks and discuss their formation processes.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Conceptual clarification, Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of silica, while slate is a metamorphic rock derived from mudstone, formed under high temperature and pressure.
  • There is a question about how to visually differentiate between sandstone and slate, with some suggesting that it may be challenging to do so based solely on appearance.
  • Participants discuss the formation of sedimentary rocks, indicating they are formed through the weathering action of water, wind, and frost on existing rocks, leading to a generally uniform, fine-grained, and compact structure.
  • One participant raises a question about how the bits of existing rock collect before being transformed into sedimentary rock and what key features characterize their appearance.
  • Another participant suggests that examining the rocks by touch may provide additional clues for differentiation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple viewpoints regarding the characteristics and formation of sandstone and slate, with no consensus on the best method for visual differentiation. Participants express uncertainty about the ease of identifying these rocks based on appearance alone.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the visibility of characteristics and the effectiveness of touch in differentiating the rocks remain unresolved. The discussion does not clarify specific visual features that could aid in identification.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students studying geology or those interested in understanding the differences between various types of rocks, particularly in a homework context.

fayssal
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Homework Statement


sandstone is a sedimentary rocks while slate is a metamorphic rock come from mud stone with a high temperature and pressure, they are both stratified rocks, while chemically slates compose of Argil i.e Clay, while silica is the main ingredients of sandstone,
my question is : how can we make the difference by just look ?
 
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fayssal said:

Homework Statement


sandstone is a sedimentary rocks while slate is a metamorphic rock come from mud stone with a high temperature and pressure, they are both stratified rocks, while chemically slates compose of Argil i.e Clay, while silica is the main ingredients of sandstone,
my question is : how can we make the difference by just look ?

What's one of the key characteristics of sedimentary rocks? How are these types of rock formed?
 
sedimentary rocks formed due to weathering action of water, wind and frost on existing rocks generally uniform, fine grained and compact
 
fayssal said:
sedimentary rocks formed due to weathering action of water, wind and frost on existing rocks generally uniform, fine grained and compact
And how do these bits of existing rock collect before being turned into a sedimentary rock? What is the chief feature of their appearance?

Hint: It's OK to look at pictures of rocks on the internet. ;)
 
by look by touch
it's hard difficult to notice the difference in pictures u can try that
 
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