In Earth Science, specifically in the context of geology and petrology, "foliated" refers to a characteristic of certain metamorphic rocks that display a layered or banded appearance. This texture results from the alignment of mineral grains under directed pressure during the metamorphic process. Foliated rocks typically exhibit a parallel arrangement of minerals, which can often be seen in schist, slate, and gneiss. The foliation can give the rock a distinctive texture and allows it to be split into thin layers or sheets. The degree and nature of foliation can provide insights into the conditions under which the rock formed.
Earth Space Science
Foliated definition
1 answer