Article
Article
Soapstone
Article By:
Barth, T. F. W. Formerly, Geologic Museum, Oslo, Norway.
Last reviewed:2014
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.630400
A soft talc-rich rock. Soapstones are rocks composed of serpentine, talc, and carbonates (magnesite, dolomite, or calcite). They represent original peridotites which were altered at low temperatures by hydrothermal solutions containing silicon dioxide, SiO2; carbon dioxide, CO2; and other dissolved materials (products of low-grade metasomatism). Among the rock products thus formed are antigorite schists, actinolite-talc schists, and talc-carbonate rocks. To the last belongs the true soapstone, but the whole group of rocks may loosely be referred to as soapstones because of their soft, soapy consistency. Such rocks were selected by prehistoric humans for making primitive vessels and pots, and for making rough carvings for ornamental purposes. See also: Talc
The content above is only an excerpt.
About AccessScience
AccessScience provides the most accurate and trustworthy scientific information available.
Recognized as an award-winning gateway to scientific knowledge, AccessScience is an amazing online resource that contains high-quality reference material written specifically for students. Contributors include more than 10,000 highly qualified scientists and 46 Nobel Prize winners.
MORE THAN 8700 articles covering all major scientific disciplines and encompassing the McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Science & Technology and McGraw-Hill Yearbook of Science & Technology
115,000-PLUS definitions from the McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms
3000 biographies of notable scientific figures
MORE THAN 19,000 downloadable images and animations illustrating key topics
ENGAGING VIDEOS highlighting the life and work of award-winning scientists
SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY and additional readings to guide students to deeper understanding and research
LINKS TO CITABLE LITERATURE help students expand their knowledge using primary sources of information
