Scoria is a highly vesicular, dark colored volcanic rock that may or may not contain crystals (phenocrysts). source
Scoria is a highly vesicular, dark colored volcanic rock that may or may not contain crystals (phenocrysts).
Scoria is typically dark in color (generally dark brown, black or purplish red), and basaltic or andesitic in composition. source
Scoria is typically dark in color (generally dark brown, black or purplish red), and basaltic or andesitic in composition.
Scoria is relatively low in density as a result of its numerous macroscopic ellipsoidal vesicles. source
Scoria is relatively low in density as a result of its numerous macroscopic ellipsoidal vesicles.
In contrast to pumice, all scoria has a specific gravity greater than 1, and sinks in water. source
In contrast to pumice, all scoria has a specific gravity greater than 1, and sinks in water.
Scoria may form as part of a lava flow, typically near its surface, or as fragmental ejecta (lapilli, blocks and bombs). source
Scoria may form as part of a lava flow, typically near its surface, or as fragmental ejecta (lapilli, blocks and bombs).
In Strombolian eruptions that form steep-sided scoria cones. source
In Strombolian eruptions that form steep-sided scoria cones.
Most scoria is composed of glassy fragments, and may contain phenocrysts. source
Most scoria is composed of glassy fragments, and may contain phenocrysts.
The word scoria comes from the Greek σκωρία, skōria, rust. An old name for scoria is cinder. source
The word scoria comes from the Greek σκωρία, skōria, rust. An old name for scoria is cinder.
Volcanic cones of scoria can be left behind after eruptions, usually forming mountains with a crater at the summit source
Volcanic cones of scoria can be left behind after eruptions, usually forming mountains with a crater at the summit
Scoria has several useful characteristics that influence how it is used. source
Scoria has several useful characteristics that influence how it is used.
Scoria is somewhat porous, has high surface area and strength for its weight, and often has striking colours. source
Scoria is somewhat porous, has high surface area and strength for its weight, and often has striking colours.
Scoria is often used in landscaping and drainage works. source
Scoria is often used in landscaping and drainage works.
Scoria is commonly used in gas barbecue grills. source
Scoria is commonly used in gas barbecue grills.
Scoria can be used for high-temperature insulation. source
Scoria can be used for high-temperature insulation.
Scoria is used on oil well sites to limit mud issues with heavy truck traffic. source
Scoria is used on oil well sites to limit mud issues with heavy truck traffic.
Scoria is used as a traction aid on ice- and snow-covered roads. source
Scoria is used as a traction aid on ice- and snow-covered roads.
