noun
- a fine-grained volcanic rock that produces a ringing sound when struck with a hammer
Usage: geology
Examples
- The geologist identified the sample as phonolite based on its distinctive ringing sound.
- Phonolite formations are common in certain volcanic regions.
- The mountain’s phonolite cliffs echoed with a metallic ring when struck.
- Ancient builders sometimes used phonolite for construction due to its durability.
- The volcanic phonolite contained high levels of alkali feldspar.
- Students learned to identify phonolite by its characteristic acoustic properties.