1. Standard S6E5c. Classify rocks by their process of formation.
Observing Rocks
Standard S6E5c. Classify rocks by their process of formation.

2. Observing Rocks
When studying a rock sample, geologists observe the rock’s mineral composition, color and texture.
The rock’s color provides clues to the mineral composition, but, as with minerals, color alone does not provide enough information to identify a rock.

3. Observing Rocks Texture—the look and feel of a rock’s surface.
Texture is determined by the
Grain size
Grain shape
Grain pattern
Grains—particles of minerals or other rocks which make up rock