Shale (Sample #6)
Rock Type: Sedimentary
Composition: Grains of clay
Particle size: Fine grained, clay sized
Hardness: Soft, mohs 3
Environment: Shale sediments are deposited in still water (low energy) such as a lake or a deep, slow river.
Environment: Shale sediments are deposited in still water (low energy) such as a lake or a deep, slow river.
Distinguishing Characteristics: Dull, it can be reddish- brown to grey in colour. Very fine grains (smooth to the touch), breaks easily along horizontal plains. If an edge is dipped in water and drawn along a surface, shale will leave a muddy streak. Sometimes shale can smell oily.
Uses: Shale can be used as a raw material for brick manufacturing. Shale is also a source rock for many fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas. Today shale deposits can be fractured (fracted) to release the natural gas or oil trapped within its pores.
Join Our Mailing List
Stay up to date on latest news and events.