Why do we study Petrology?
Answers
Petrology (from Greek: “Petra”—“rock” and “logos”—“knowledge”) is the study of rocks, their occurrences, composition, origin and evolution. This research also focuses on the study of minerals and meteorites as model to unravel the interiors of planetary bodies. Petrography deals with the detailed description and classification of rocks, whereas petrology focuses primarily on the rock formation, or petrogenesis. A petrological description includes definition of the unit in which the rock occurs, its attitude and structure, its mineralogy and chemical composition, and conclusions regarding its origin.
Petrology plays important role in ascertaining the physical and chemical composition of rocks and the different conditions that influence their formation. Petrology research is also helps us in understanding the nature of earth crust and mantle.