More Questions from Building Materials

Identify the rock that is not sedimentary from the following list commonly encountered in construction materials. Choose the odd one based on geologic origin.

Civil Engineering Building Materials Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    Gravel (detrital)
  • B
    Sandstone
  • C
    Gypsum
  • D
    Dolerite
  • E
    Lignite

Answer

Correct Answer: Dolerite

Explanation

Introduction / Context:Construction aggregates and stones are classified by geologic origin: igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic. Recognizing the origin helps anticipate durability, strength, and weathering behavior. This question asks for the non-sedimentary rock among common building materials.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Gravel, sandstone, gypsum, and lignite typically form via sedimentary processes.
  • Dolerite (also called diabase) is an igneous rock.
  • We select by origin, not by end-use properties alone.

Concept / Approach:Sedimentary rocks form from deposition (clastic like sandstone and gravel) or chemical/biochemical precipitation (gypsum, lignite as a coal). Igneous rocks crystallize from magma or lava; dolerite is a medium-grained mafic intrusive/extrusive equivalent to basalt, thus non-sedimentary.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Classify each option by origin.2) Gravel: clastic sedimentary; sandstone: clastic sedimentary.3) Gypsum: evaporite, chemical sedimentary; lignite: coal, sedimentary (biochemical).4) Dolerite: igneous; therefore the odd one out.

Verification / Alternative check:Geology references consistently define dolerite/diabase as igneous, compositionally akin to basalt and gabbro, not a sedimentary rock.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Gravel/Sandstone/Gypsum/Lignite: all sedimentary in origin; selecting any would contradict their formation processes.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing sedimentary gypsum with metamorphic anhydrite; assuming lignite is metamorphic because coal ranks vary—lignite is a low-rank sedimentary coal.

Final Answer:Dolerite

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