Continental Crust:
* Dominant Rock Type: Felsic Igneous Rocks (like granite)
* These rocks are light-colored, rich in silica, and contain minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica.
* Other Rock Types:
* Metamorphic Rocks: Formed from the transformation of existing rocks due to heat and pressure. Examples include gneiss, schist, and marble.
* Sedimentary Rocks: Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sediments. Examples include sandstone, limestone, and shale.
Oceanic Crust:
* Dominant Rock Type: Mafic Igneous Rocks (like basalt)
* These rocks are darker colored, richer in iron and magnesium, and contain minerals like pyroxene and olivine.
* Other Rock Types:
* Ultramafic Rocks: These are even denser than mafic rocks, often found in the uppermost mantle. An example is peridotite.
* Sedimentary Rocks: Thin layers of sedimentary rocks can be found on top of the oceanic crust, particularly in areas with abundant marine life.
Key Differences:
* Composition: Continental crust is richer in silica and lighter elements, while oceanic crust is richer in iron and magnesium.
* Density: Continental crust is less dense than oceanic crust, which is why continents rise above sea level.
* Thickness: Continental crust is significantly thicker than oceanic crust.
Let me know if you'd like to delve deeper into any of these rock types!
