2.1.3

Using Rocks

Test yourself

Using Rocks

Different types of rock are used for different purposes.

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Igneous rocks

  • Granite is used as kerbstones and in kitchen worktops because it is extremely durable.
  • Basalt is often crushed and used as a base for making roads.
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Sedimentary rocks

  • Limestone can be used as building blocks or to produce cement.
    • Limestone is easily quarried.
  • Some limestones are softer and easy to carve.
  • Gritstone is used to make grinding wheels as it is very abrasive.
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Metamorphic rocks

  • Slate is used on roofs as it is easy to split, durable and impermeable (water does not pass through it).

Jump to other topics

1Geography Skills

2Geology of the UK

3Geography of the World

4Development

5Weather & Climate

6The World of Work

7Natural Resources

8Rivers

9Coasts

10Glaciers

11Tectonics

12Climate Change

13Global Population & Inequality

14Urbanisation

15Ecosystems

16Life in an Emerging Country

17Analysis of Africa

18Analysis of India

19Analysis of the Middle East

20Analysis of Bangladesh

21Analysis of Russia

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