Dacite: Description, Characteristics, and Other FAQs

In this article, you’ll obtain answers to common questions about dacite.

What Is Dacite?

Dacite is a fine-grained or aphanitic (fine-grained) igneous rock.

It has a composition similar to that of andesite.

Dacite typically contains around 20% to 35% quartz by volume, along with plagioclase feldspar, hornblende, and pyroxene.

It may also contain small amounts of biotite, chlorite, and zeolites.

Where Is Dacite Commonly Found?

Dacite is found in many places around the world, occurring in tectonic settings.

Some of these locations include:

-The Andes Mountains

-Cascades Range

-Sierra Nevada

Dacite is also found in New Zealand, Iceland, the Philippines, and parts of Russia.

What is a tectonic setting?

A tectonic setting is the area where an igneous rock is formed.

The three main types of tectonic settings are:

–Intrusive: Intrusive igneous rocks are formed when magma cools and solidifies below the Earth’s surface.

–Extrusive: Extrusive igneous rocks are formed when magma cools and solidifies on the Earth’s surface.

–Plutonic: Plutonic igneous rocks are formed when magma cools and solidifies within the Earth’s crust.

What Are Dacite’s Characteristics?

Dacite has a wide range of physical characteristics.

Some of these include:

–Color: Dacite can be gray, white, pink, or even black.

–Texture: Dacite is typically fine-grained, but it can also be coarser grained.

–Luster: Dacite can have a vitreous, pearly, or dull luster.

–Hardness: Dacite has a hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs Scale.

–Cleavage: Dacite typically does not cleave.

–Fracture: Dacite typically fractures in a conchoidal manner.

–Specific Gravity: Dacite typically has a specific gravity of 2.6-2.7.

What Is Dacite Used For?

Dacite has a wide range of uses. Some of these uses include:

–Architecture: Dacite is often used in architecture, especially in the construction of buildings and bridges.

–Jewelry: Dacite is sometimes used in the creation of jewelry.

–Countertops: Dacite is also used as a material for countertops.

–Fireplaces: Dacite is a popular choice for fireplaces and other outdoor structures.

Is Dacite Intrusive or Extrusive?

Dacite can be either intrusive or extrusive.

Intrusive dacite is typically found in the form of dikes and sills.

Extrusive dacite is typically found in the form of lava flows and pyroclastic deposits.

Is Dacite an Igneous Rock?

Yes, dacite is an igneous rock.

It is typically formed by the partial melting of sedimentary and/or metamorphic rocks.

Is Dacite a Volcanic Rock?

Dacite can be a volcanic rock.

Is Dacite a Rock or a Mineral?

Dacite is a rock. It is not a mineral.

Is Dacite radioactive?

No, dacite is not radioactive.

Is Dacite Aphanitic or Phaneritic?

Dacite is typically aphanitic, but it can also be phaneritic.

Aphanitic dacite is typically fine-grained, while phaneritic dacite is typically coarser grained.

Is Dacite Mafic or Felsic?

Dacite is typically mafic, but it can also be felsic.

Mafic dacite typically contains more magnesium and iron, while felsic dacite typically contains more silicon.

Is Dacite A Sedimentary Rock?

No, dacite is not a sedimentary rock.

Is Dacite Volcanic or Plutonic?

Dacite can be either volcanic or plutonic.

Volcanic dacite is typically found in the form of lava flows and pyroclastic deposits.

What Is the Difference Between Dacite and Andesite?

The main difference between dacite and andesite is that dacite is typically lighter in color than andesite.

Andesite is also usually less fine-grained than dacite.

What Is the Difference Between Dacite and Basalt?

Basalt is a fine-grained igneous rock that is similar in composition to andesite. The main difference between basalt and dacite is that basalt has a lower silica content than dacite.

Can Dacite Scratch Glass?

Yes, dacite can scratch glass.

Glass usually scores around a 5 to 6 on the Moh’s scale, while dacite is a 6 to 7.

Is Dacite Magnetic?

No, dacite is not magnetic.