• Home
  • Chemistry
  • Astronomy
  • Energy
  • Nature
  • Biology
  • Physics
  • Electronics
  • Rhyolite vs. Basalt: Understanding Felsic vs. Mafic Composition
    Rhyolite has a more felsic composition than basalt.

    Felsic rocks are rich in silica (SiO2), aluminum (Al), potassium (K), and sodium (Na). Mafic rocks are rich in magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe).

    Rhyolite is an extrusive igneous rock that is very high in silica (typically over 68%). It is considered a felsic rock.

    Basalt is an extrusive igneous rock that is relatively low in silica (typically 45-55%). It is considered a mafic rock.

    Therefore, rhyolite has a more felsic composition than basalt.

    Science Discoveries © www.scienceaq.com