Aphanitic Definition Aphanitic: In geology, the term aphanitic describes the texture of plutonic or volcanic igneous rocks, with grains that are not visible to the naked eye. In fact, an aphanitic texture is usually the result of faster cooling and solidification of liquid magma.

Mineral Definition A mineral is defined as an inorganic element, compound, or substance that naturally develops with an organized internal structure and/or crystal form over time. Minerals are also distinguishable by their chemical composition and physical properties, as determined in laboratories by geologists. Typical earth minerals found in most igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks are…

Oblique-Slip Fault Oblique-Slip Fault: In geology, an oblique-slip fault is a fault that moves parallel to the strike or dip of the fault plane.

Single Station Methane Gas Detector Single Station Methane Gas Detector: As per the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) Methane Code, Ordinance Number 175790, a single station methane gas detector is a device consisting of electrical components that are capable of measuring methane soil gas concentrations indoors, and initiating an alarm. The single…

Lithosphere Lithosphere: The lithosphere comprises the Earth’s crust as well as part of the upper mantle. In fact, the lithosphere is approximately 100 kilometers thick and is relatively strong as compared to the underlying asthenosphere.