Definitions
- Referring to a rock fragment that is foreign to the igneous rock in which it is embedded. - Talking about a piece of rock that has been carried by magma from one place to another. - Describing a rock inclusion that is different in composition from the surrounding rock.
- Referring to a fragment of rock or mineral that is part of a larger rock. - Talking about a piece of rock that has been broken off from a larger rock. - Describing a rock particle that has been transported by water, wind, or ice.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to fragments of rock.
- 2Both words can be used in geological contexts.
- 3Both words describe inclusions within a larger rock formation.
What is the difference?
- 1Transportation: Xenolith is typically transported by magma, while clast can be transported by water, wind, or ice.
- 2Composition: Xenolith is different in composition from the surrounding rock, while clast can be of the same or different composition as the surrounding rock.
- 3Size: Clast can refer to fragments of any size, while xenolith typically refers to larger fragments.
- 4Usage: Xenolith is a more technical term used in geology, while clast is a more general term used in both geology and everyday language.
Remember this!
Xenolith and clast are both terms used to describe fragments of rock. However, the difference between them lies in their origin, transportation, composition, size, and usage. Xenolith refers to a rock fragment that is foreign to the igneous rock in which it is embedded and is typically transported by magma. On the other hand, clast can refer to any fragment of rock or mineral that is part of a larger rock and can be transported by water, wind, or ice. Clast is a more general term used in both geology and everyday language, while xenolith is a more technical term used in geology.
