Describe the three major compositional groups of igneous rocks.

1. Felsic:
- Composition: High in silica (SiO\(_2\)), along with significant amounts of aluminum, potassium, sodium, and quartz.
- Characteristics: Light-colored minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and muscovite.
- Examples: Granite and rhyolite.

2. Intermediate:
- Composition: Intermediate levels of silica, with a balanced mix of light and dark minerals.
- Characteristics: Contains minerals such as plagioclase feldspar, amphibole, and biotite.
- Examples: Andesite and diorite.

3. Mafic:
- Composition: Lower in silica, but rich in iron and magnesium.
- Characteristics: Dark-colored minerals such as pyroxene, olivine, and calcium-rich plagioclase feldspar.
- Examples: Basalt and gabbro.

Supplemental Knowledge:

Igneous rocks, formed through the solidification of molten rock material, can be classified according to their mineral content and texture. Three major groups exist based on composition - felsic, intermediate, and mafic.

Knowledge in Action:

An understanding of igneous rocks' composition is critical for practical applications in various settings.
Imagine you're hiking through a national park that showcases diverse geologic features. By noting the types of igneous rocks--light colored granite or dark basalt--that you encounter, such as light granite and dark basalt--you can piece together its geologic history and gain greater appreciation of natural landscapes and their creation processes.

Gaining insights into geological concepts like the compositional groups of igneous rocks can deepen your understanding of Earth's processes. At UpStudy, we provide resources that help you explore these fascinating topics comprehensively.

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