Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
andesite
Noun
/ˈæn.dɪ.saɪt/
Definition
Andesite is a type of volcanic rock that is made primarily of plagioclase along with other minerals, such as hornblende, biotite, and pyroxene.
Examples
- The Andes mountains are primarily composed of andesite.
- Geologists often study andesite to understand volcanic eruption processes.
Meaning
It is commonly found in volcanic arcs and is characterized by its intermediate composition between basalt and rhyolite.
Synonyms
- Volcanic rock
- Intermediate lava
