petrology

noun

Pronunciation: /pɪˈtrɒlədʒi/

Definition

The branch of geology that focuses on the origin, composition, structure, and classification of rocks.

Examples

• Her doctoral research in petrology provided new insights into how volcanic activity shapes the Earth's crust.

• The museum curator consulted a specialist in petrology to identify the rare mineral samples found in the cave.

• Students of petrology must learn to distinguish between igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock formations.

Synonyms of petrology

Words with a similar meaning to petrology:

• geology
• lithology

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