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What is it and where is it formed? Slate
is a metamorphic rock. Slate is actually
shale that had low
heat and not very much pressure put on it. Slate is mostly
formed in mountain areas. It takes thousands of years for slate
to change. Slate can be any color but is mostly found in gray
or black. When it is broken, it splits into layers. It can
have quartz,
muscovite,
hematite,
graphite, and other
minerals
in it. -
How and where is it mined? Slate is mined using quarrying. It is mined in Pennsylvania, Maine, Georgia, and Vermont. It is mined throughout the world in places like Wales.
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What is it used for? Slate is used for roofing, floors, and it was used for blackboards. If it is crushed, it is used in paints and flooring.
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Interesting Information:
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Ancient Egyptians put round pieces of slate in a mummy’s mouth.
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Ancient Romans used slate for roofs and floors.
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