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marble

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Marble is a metamorphic rock that is formed when limestone is subjected to heat and pressure. Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is made up of calcium carbonate. When limestone is heated and compressed, the calcium carbonate molecules rearrange themselves into a different crystal structure. This new crystal structure is what gives marble its distinctive look and properties.

Marble is often white or cream-coloured, but it can also be other colours, such as pink, green, or black. The colour of marble is determined by the impurities that are present in the limestone. For example, pink marble is caused by the presence of iron oxide, while green marble is caused by the presence of copper carbonate.

Marble is a very hard rock and it is often used to make sculptures and other objects. It is also used to make countertops, flooring, and other decorative items.

How can the word be used?

The columns in the lobby were made of marble.

marble

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • A hard, crystalline rock that is typically white or light-coloured and has a distinctive banded or mottled appearance.
  • A piece of marble that is used for sculptures, columns, and other decorative objects.
  • A game played on a board with a checkered pattern, in which players move their pieces around the board according to certain rules.

Adjective:

  • Made of marble.
  • Having a smooth, polished surface like marble.
  • Resembling marble in colour or appearance.

Etymology

The word "marble" comes from the Latin word "marmor", which is thought to be derived from the Greek word "marmaros", which means "shining stone".

The word "marble" was first used in English in the 13th century. It was originally used to describe a hard, crystalline rock that was used for sculptures and other decorative objects, but it soon came to be used in a more general sense to describe anything that was made of marble or that had a similar appearance.

Question

What is marble and how is it formed?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the formation process of marble and discuss its characteristics as a metamorphic rock. Provide examples of how marble is used in architecture and sculpture.

Answer:

Marble, a beautiful and durable metamorphic rock, is formed from limestone undergoing intense heat and pressure within the Earth's crust. The process, called metamorphism, involves the recrystallization of the minerals present in limestone, primarily calcite. The high temperature and pressure cause the calcite crystals to grow larger and interlock, giving marble its distinctive texture.

Marble boasts unique characteristics, such as its vibrant range of colours and exquisite veining patterns. Its polished surface reflects light, lending it a luxurious appearance that's highly valued in construction and art. Architects often utilise marble in buildings due to its aesthetic appeal and ability to withstand weathering. Historic structures like the Parthenon in Athens and the Taj Mahal in India are adorned with marble.

Sculptors have long favoured marble for its workability and timeless elegance. Renowned artworks like Michelangelo's "David" and the ancient "Venus de Milo" were carved from marble blocks, showcasing the rock's potential to capture intricate details and lifelike forms.