Here's why:
* Composition: Basalt is a volcanic rock rich in iron and magnesium. These minerals, when freshly formed, give the rock a dark color.
* Weathering: Over time, weathering can alter the color of basalt. Iron in the rock can oxidize, turning it a reddish-brown color. This is more common in areas with high levels of moisture and oxygen.
Therefore, red coloration in basalt is usually a sign of weathering rather than an inherent characteristic of the rock.