Key terms
Chemistry vocabulary
You’ll see these terms in scientific descriptions, lab reports, and classification diagrams.
Major elements
Elements that make up most of the rock (Si, Al, Fe, Mg, Ca, Na, K, Ti).
Trace elements
Low concentrations that can fingerprint sources and processes (e.g., Sr, Rb, Ni, Cr, REE).
Oxides & wt%
Geochemistry often reports oxides (SiO₂, Al₂O₃) in weight percent (wt%).
Isotopes (intro)
Stable and radiogenic isotopes help trace sources and timing (e.g., Sr, Nd, Pb systems).
Chemistry in textures
Mineral color and zoning can reflect chemistry—best confirmed with lab methods.
Back to Stone Science
Return to the overview page to continue into rock-forming minerals and the full glossary.