Shale

3D Model

(Sample #6)

Rock Type: sedimentary

Composition: grains of clay

Particle size: fine grained, clay sized

Hardness: soft, mohs 3

Environment: Shale sediments are deposited in still water (low energy) such as a lake or a deep, slow river. Distinguishing Characteristics: dull, it can be reddish- brown to grey in colour. Very fine grains (smooth to the touch), breaks easily along horizontal plains. If an edge is dipped in water and drawn along a surface, shale will leave a muddy streak. Sometimes shale can smell oily. Uses: Shale can be used as a raw material for brick manufacturing. Shale is also a source rock for many fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas. Today shale deposits can be fractured (fracted) to release the natural gas or oil trapped within its pores.