The language of stone – how to ‘read’ a rock?
This UT FieldLab experiment falls under the theme Earth structures and dynamics. View all experiments related to this theme.
Introduction
How do you read a rock? Every stone tells a story of millions of years of geological history. In this rock garden, we explore how to unravel those stories using modern techniques. From deep magma formations to water-shaped sediments, each rock holds clues about the processes that shaped our planet. Harald van der Werff: “The rockgarden offers a unique opportunity to learn how to read stones. By closely examining and measuring the colours, minerals, patterns and structures present, we can begin to understand how the rocks were formed. This can be done with a simple magnifying glass, but also with highly advanced measuring equipment—both on the ground and from the air.”
What are we researching?
We aim to test methods for determining the composition and origin of rocks. How reliable are different techniques, and what information do they provide? This knowledge is vital for locating resources and energy sources, and for understanding natural processes like volcanism and plate tectonics.
How does it work?
The rock garden features stones formed deep in the Earth’s crust and others shaped by volcanic activity, deposition, or water. We use a wide range of tools: handheld devices, cameras, tripod-mounted sensors, and drones. Specific instruments are “Analytical Spectral device” and “Spectral Evolution” portable spectroradiometers and a “HySpex Mjolnir VS-620" imaging spectrometer, that all measure in the visible to shortwave-infrared light. Other handheld instruments are a gamma-ray spectrometer and a portable x-ray diffraction spectrometer (XRF). By comparing measurements, we identify which method suits which situation best. The data helps us recognise patterns in minerals, texture, and chemical composition – the ‘language’ rocks use to tell their story.
Why is this important?
Each measurement brings us closer to a complete picture of how our planet works. Better analysis methods allow for safer and more efficient resource extraction, reduce risks in construction projects, and improve our understanding of natural processes. This experiment contributes to safe building practices, sound soil management, and a more sustainable relationship with the Earth.