Strength of Rocks: Activity 1
In Activity 1 you will try to find out which of the major groups of rocks (igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary) have the greatest strength and which have the least strength and try to explain why.
Which of the three groups of rocks: igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary will generally have the greatest strength? Give your reasons.
View and print out the Data Sheet here. Use it to fill in your results.
You will have to find out the rock group and calculate the average and range yourself. Information about the rock group for each rock sample is given in the Properties of rocks and minerals file.
When you have acquired your data, plot a bar graph with the rocks along the horizontal axis and the relative strength (= bounce height) on the vertical axis. Plot them in order of decreasing strength from left to right.
Describe what you have found and explain it or relate it to your hypothesis.
Explain any anomalies.