Mafic rocks are typically darker in color due to their mineral content.

Mafic rocks are typically darker in color due to their mineral content.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Light in color
• D. Variable

Answer: (A)

Darkness in mafic rocks comes from their mineral makeup. They are rich in iron- and magnesium-bearing minerals such as olivine and pyroxene, which are themselves dark. This high concentration of dark minerals makes the rock appear darker overall. In contrast, felsic rocks contain light-colored minerals like quartz and potassium feldspar, giving them a lighter hue. So, while some rocks can vary due to alteration or other factors, the general pattern is that mafic rocks are darker because of their mineral content. This is why the statement is true.

Darkness in mafic rocks comes from their mineral makeup. They are rich in iron- and magnesium-bearing minerals such as olivine and pyroxene, which are themselves dark. This high concentration of dark minerals makes the rock appear darker overall. In contrast, felsic rocks contain light-colored minerals like quartz and potassium feldspar, giving them a lighter hue. So, while some rocks can vary due to alteration or other factors, the general pattern is that mafic rocks are darker because of their mineral content. This is why the statement is true.