Earth - Soil and Rock Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is a rock?
A rock is a solid collection of minerals.
Rocks can be classified into three main types: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic.
What are the three main types of rock?
- Sedimentary
- Igneous
- Metamorphic
How does igneous rock form?
Igneous rock forms when molten rock cools and solidifies.
Examples include granite, basalt, obsidian, and pumice.
What is sedimentary rock?
Sedimentary rock originates when particles settle out of water or air and accumulate in layers.
Examples include sandstone, limestone, and shale.
What results in the formation of metamorphic rock?
Metamorphic rock results when existing rocks are changed by heat, pressure, or reactive fluids.
Examples include marble, quartzite, soapstone, and slate.
Why is it important to understand local rocks and geology in architecture?
It is essential for ensuring structural stability and durability, as different rocks have varying strengths and weathering properties.
What factors should be considered when selecting materials for construction?
- Sustainability
- Aesthetic integration with the environment
- Structural integrity
- Strength
- Weight
- Transport costs
- Carbon footprint
- Sourcing and local availability
- Ease of manipulation/use
- Project costs
What is soil?
Soil is a thin layer of material covering the Earth’s surface, consisting of weathered rocks, mineral particles, organic material, air, water, and living organisms.
What are the four components of soil?
- Mineral matter
- Organic matter
- Air
- Water
- Void spaces (air between the particles)
What is a ceramic?
A ceramic is any of the various hard, brittle materials made by shaping and firing an inorganic, non-metallic material such as clay at a high temperature.
What are the main components of brick?
Brick is composed of:
* Sand 50%
* Clay alumina 40%
* Lime 5%
* Iron oxide 5%
* Magnesium less than 1%
What are the typical dimensions of an Australian brick?
The dimensions are 230x76mm (110mm wide).
What are some functions of soil?
- Provision of food, fiber, and fuel
- Carbon sequestration
- Water purification and soil contaminant reduction
- Climate regulation
- Nutrient cycling
- Habitat for organisms
- Flood regulation
- Source of pharmaceuticals and genetic resources
- Foundation for human infrastructure
- Provision of construction materials
- Cultural heritage
