Post by: Bryant Leaver, Saliem Hatsey, Lyla Hein, Mia Schroeder

GPS coordinates:

+44.04711°, -123.07792°

Google Earth link (site 6)

Location and general description: This feature is an artistic piece located outside of McKenzie Hall, in the courtyard adjacent to the Yamada Learning Center. It serves as the focal point of this decorative garden, blending in with the concrete building and its natural surroundings. The university placed it on campus to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the rock garden. Our group was initially drawn to its distinctive shape and prominent position in the courtyard, which led to our investigation.

Geological Observations: This is a naturally occurring basalt rock, bolted to a mixed-pebble concrete stand and standing upright. It seems like an artist sculpted the top of the rock to reveal the interior, where a smooth seam with long white cracks is visible. It has a dark gray appearance, with moss growing on the top of the rock and around the concrete base. Darker gray crystals are embedded in the larger rock, which can be clearly seen within the cut slab. Additionally, there are white splotches that rub off, presumably lichen, which contribute to the rock’s aging presence in this location. The height of the rock is approximately 6’8”, which can be estimated by comparing it to a human’s height in Figure 1.

 

How can geological analysis determine the provenance of a rock sculpture?

Contributed by: Bryant Leaver

Geological Question: Many other geological sculptures have public information about their origins online, but this one doesn’t. This lack of information piques my curiosity about its origin. In geology, provenance refers to the origins or sources of particles within sediment and sedimentary rocks. It can also be applied to igneous rocks, like our basalt sculpture. This intrigues me, so I wonder: how can geological analysis determine the provenance of a rock sculpture? This question is relevant to geology because the origin of a rock is crucial in reconstructing its history and providing insights into past tectonic movements and volcanic activity.

Description of scientific article: To help me answer this question, I read an article by Kovářová et al. (2025) about a study conducted at St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague. The study investigated non-destructive, on-site techniques to determine the origin of historical building stones. This article was beneficial to my scientific inquiry as it provided valuable insights into how I could apply these techniques to the basalt sculpture outside McKenzie Hall to identify its origin. Although these rocks are of different types, the same methods apply to igneous rocks.

An answer to the question? My initial question was: How can geological analysis determine the provenance of a rock sculpture? Kovářová et al. (2025) answers my question by explaining the non-destructive methods used to investigate the stone’s origins at St. Vitus Cathedral. One technique, reflectance spectroscopy, measured the stone’s surface reflection of near- and mid-infrared light, which are invisible to the human eye. They compared these reflective curves to other infrared rock data sets to identify similar material. They also employed a method called traceology, which examined surface details to estimate the stone’s age. Understanding the rock’s age aided in comparing it to predicted source areas. Overall, both methods involve comparing the rock’s composition to known sample data to find similarities (Kovářová et al., 2025). The geological analysis conducted in this study demonstrates that many methods are available to determine the provenance of a rock sculpture, ideally, in a non-destructive manner.

Intersection between peer-reviewed research and observations on campus: If I wanted to examine the origins of this basalt sculpture without causing any damage, I could employ similar methods. These methods, such as reflectance spectroscopy and traceology, require specialized equipment and expertise. Unfortunately, I lack both of these skills and they are generally not accessible to the average person. However, with proper training or assistance from a trained professional, I could apply these methods and conduct the research that geologists conducted. If I were to undertake this experiment, I would consider several factors outlined in Kovářová et al. (2025) based on their selection of stones for their experiment. Firstly, it would be crucial to test on an area that appears least affected by weathering and has maintained its natural color and texture. I would avoid the mossy area at the top, as shown in Figure 2, because of its weathering. Secondly, I would want to sample from different regions to ensure that the compositions might appear different. Although the appearance seems similar throughout, it would be helpful to test several places just in case. Finally, it would be important to document my process for future reference, as they did, if I were to examine other basalt structures (Kovářová et al., 2025).

Something additional I learned and future questions: One additional thing that I learned from Kovářová et al. (2025) is that spectroscopy is utilized across various fields, such as astronomy for analyzing the atmospheres of distant locations, in medicine for imaging tissues, and for checking the ripeness and quality of food. Spectroscopy is used in astronomy specifically to determine the composition and read the chemical makeup of distant planets and stars, which is extremely impressive to me (Kovářová et al., 2025). This discovery prompts me to wonder: What insights can spectroscopy provide into the geology of distant planets and stars?

 

Source cited: 

Kovářová, K., Matoušková, E., Cihla, M., Dáňová, H., & Roháček, J. (2025). New methods collection to identify the building and decoration stones provenance. Npj Heritage Science, 13(1), 42. https://doi.org/10.1038/s40494-025-01633-x

 

How is the color of basalt impacted by the minerals present in the rock?

Contributed by: Lyla Hein

Geological Question: This question was sparked for me during our first field study, when we talked about how basalt rocks are darker in color because they have less of the silica mineral than other types of rock. I started wondering how this coloring process might occur, and what other minerals impact basalt’s color. I find it interesting because color is often one of my first observations when studying rocks, but I don’t know a lot about what gives rocks their color. My question relates to geology because it investigates how the mineral composition of basalt rocks may explain the dark gray color that my group observed in our campus feature (Figure 3).

Description of scientific article: I chose an article by El Halim et al. (2021) that investigates how chemical composition (the elements present in a rock) impacts the colors of igneous and sedimentary rocks in Morocco. Igneous rocks are formed through the cooling of magma or lava, while sedimentary rocks are formed through the compression of sediments. Because basalt is a type of igneous rock, the observations by El Halim et al. (2021) connect to my question about the color of basalt. El Halim et al. (2021) seek to understand the relationship between rock color, nature, and elemental composition by observing and measuring the composition of different rock samples. El Halim et al. (2021) can help me answer my question by studying how the colors of magmatic (igneous) rocks are influenced by elements and oxides, which are a combination of oxygen and at least one other element. There is also a figure included that could benefit my investigation because it shows magmatic color samples that have a color similar to the color we observed in our basalt sculpture (El Halim et al., 2021).

Intersection between research and observations on campus: El Halim et al. (2021) note a strong connection between magmatic rocks and the dark gray color that we observed in our campus feature. In the 27 rock samples, Halim et al. (2021) observe that the magmatic rocks range from a lighter parchment color to an opium shade. In other words, these samples are either off-white or various shades of gray. This closely aligns with the dark gray color that my group noted in our sculpture. El Halim et al. (2021) also include a figure showing the collected rock samples that have been ground into a powder material. There are 13 samples of magmatic rock, seven of which have a dark gray color similar to that of our feature. Aside from one clay sample that is a dark gray brown, the magmatic samples are the only ones that resemble the color of the basalt sculpture on campus (El Halim et al., 2021).

An answer to the question? El Halim et al. (2021) partially answer my research question by explaining how elemental composition can influence the color of magmatic rocks. Iron and calcium oxides are the main coloration agents in both magmatic rocks and clay sedimentary rocks, so when the elements aren’t present, these rocks tend to be white or light pink. Abundance of iron has a particular influence on if a rock will have a light or dark shade (El Halim et al., 2021). However, El Halim et al. (2021) provide little insight into how specific minerals can impact rock color, and even note that there is little scientific research on the relationship between elements and rock color. Furthermore, in most igneous rocks, the specific elements within them make up too small of a concentration to impact the overall color of the rock. El Halim et al. (2021) also note that factors like pH, heat, and organic matter can impact color, and some minerals can strongly influence the color of clay sediments. All of this leads me to conclude that it is possible that minerals have a coloring effect in basalt rocks, but if they do, it is likely small and may instead be an outcome of the types of elements within the minerals.

Something additional I learned and future questions: Additionally, I learned that iron, an element present in some minerals, can create a red and green or orange and brown color in clay sediments. And in some rocks, a high amount of a chemical compound called carbonate can create a gray color by canceling out the coloring effects of the iron (El Halim et al., 2021). After learning about how elements can impact the color of rocks, I wonder, can the elemental composition of other natural materials like plants and soil influence their color?

 

Source cited: 

El Halim, M., Daoudi, L., & El Alaoui El Fels, A. (2021). How elemental composition influences the color of igneous and sedimentary rocks: Case of the High Atlas rocks of Morocco. Color Research & Application, 47(2), 475–485. https://doi.org/10.1002/col.22735

 

How and Why Does Basalt Form in a Columnar Shape?

Contributed by: Mia Schroeder

Geological Question: Besides outside Mckenzie Hall, I have found columnar basalt in areas of Eugene and have been fascinated as to what processes create this natural shape. I have always associated a specific geometric structure with crystals and an intricate lattice formation– as opposed to rocks. This formed the question: How and why does basalt form in a columnar shape? This question is related to geology because I will be thinking about how the composition of the igneous rock and its cooling processes affect its geological structure.

Scientific Article chosen: To help me start answering this question, I read about columnar jointing in igneous rocks in an article by Hetényi et al. (2012). Columnar jointing refers to fractures in the igneous rock that occur during the cooling process, creating the distinct hexagonal shape observed in Figure 1. I chose this article because Hetényi et al. (2012) outlines the properties of lava and how specific conditions in the cooling process and rate of heat loss results in columnar jointing. I think I can use this information about columnar basalt and apply it to the formation of the structure outside Mckenzie Hall to have a better understanding of its specific features. Intersection between research and observations on campus: Hetényi et al. (2012) entails how contractional cooling results in columnar jointing. Contractional cooling describes the process in which the outer layers of a lava or magma body cools quicker than its interior. This is associated with a decrease in volume, or “shrinking” of the exterior– creating tensional stresses (a pulling force) within the material (Hetényi et al., 2012). The tensile force causes fractures to form parallel to the cooling surface and perpendicular to the pulling force (essentially inwards and upwards) (Hetényi et al., 2012). This process is demonstrated in Figure 1 by its parallel cracks along the side of the column, which occur as fractures propagate up. The column in Figure 1 exemplifies the common columnal shape (hexagonal), as it requires minimum-energy to disperse stress with three-way cracks, forming six sides (Hetényi et al., 2012).

An answer to the question? My initial question was: How and why does basalt form in a columnar shape? Hetényi et al. (2012) partially answers my question by explaining the process of contractional cooling. However, I was unable to determine other physical properties of the column; Hetényi et al. (2012) describes how slower cooling creates wider columns, whereas fast cooling creates narrower columns. The viscosity, crystallinity, and overall chemical composition are key factors in its cooling rate– hence its geometry can help determine these properties. However, I cannot determine its initial geometry when the column has been altered by humans and undergone erosion. My observations are based upon the hypothesis that the shape of the column occurred naturally, but was polished/altered by the artist.

Something additional I learned and future questions: Hetényi et al. (2012) details fieldwork on columnar jointed igneous rocks in three different countries. I was fascinated to learn they found 1.6 million year old basaltic samples in France (Hetényi et al., 2012). Unlike igneous rocks, the age of sedimentary rocks is indicated by the principle of superposition and presence of fossils. Superposition refers to how layers form upon one another– thus the oldest rock is on the bottom. Igneous rocks are formed from magma and do not possess the same indicators. This led me to wonder: How do scientists estimate the age of columnar igneous rocks?

 

Sources Cited: 

Hetényi, G., Taisne, B., Garel, F., Médard, É., Bosshard, S., & Mattsson, H. B. (2012). Scales of columnar jointing in igneous rocks: field measurements and controlling factors. Bulletin of Volcanology, 74(2), 457-482.

 

Can Basalt Rock Support Life?

Contributed by: Saliem Hatsey

Geological Question: The moss growth on the basalt sparked a question: Can basalt support life? This grabbed my interest because basalt is an igneous rock, which is formed by magma from volcanoes, and when I think of volcanoes, I don’t think about growth or life forms. It poses an intriguing question because this investigation may be able to challenge some preconceived notions that the general population has about basalt and igneous rocks. This relates to geology because basalt is an igneous rock, and this question looks into the properties within the rock that may or may not allow it to support life. 

Scientific Article chosen: Lysnes et al. (2004) was chosen for its explanation of how basalt rocks support life, such as through their chemistry, which includes elements like iron, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. Lysnes et al. (2004) also discuss how microorganisms, fungi, lichens, and moss extract nutrients from basalt, including elements within the basalt or water stored in it, through weathering. Making basalt habitable for life over time.

Intersection between research and observations on campus: Lynses et al. (2004) explain that basalt can support life due to its minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron) releasing essential nutrients through biological weathering. In Figure 5, I observed, the patterns of moss and lichen growth match the weathering as described. For instance, the moss clustered in crevices, cracks, and grooves, which is exactly where weathering processes are most likely to take place. Fungi, lichen, and moss produce organic acids that break down basalt minerals, taking the nutrients from the elements in basalt (Lynses et al., 2004). Figure 5, moss patches appear in clusters on the basalt rock surface, where it looks more degraded. This suggests that these organisms are chemically altering the rock just as described in the research. Lysnes et al. (2004) highlight the importance of water retention, also caused by biological weathering, where the more water there is the more that area can support life. Figure 5 shows, that the flat top of the basalt has the most moss because that is where the most water retention would be after rainfall. The retention is done by the tiny pores in the basalt rock, that allows the moss to be there without soil (Lysnes et al., 2004). This shows that the observations made in the field have a direct relation to the findings that Lysnes et al. (2004) made.

An answer to the question? Yes, it does answer my question. Basalt rocks can support life. There are three main components that Lysnes et al. (2004) state are why basalt rocks can support life. There are elements in basalt rocks that the organisms use: iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium. The life forms that reside on basalt rocks (microorganisms, lichen, and moss) release acids that weather the basalt rocks so that they can get the elements within the rock. Some ridges and grooves store moisture and nutrients, which are peak spots for life to reside in.

Something additional I learned and future questions: I learned a lot from Lysnes et al. (2004) and a lot from visiting this site. Lysnes et al. 2004 taught me about microbial weathering, as stated above, but it also stated that it is one of the oldest and consistent geological processes in Earth’s history. It has been here and will continue to be here for as long as the Earth is. A question that emerged as I was reading and making my observations was: How long would it take for the moss-covered basalt to support larger life forms, such as grass or shrubs?

Sources Cited: 

Lysnes, K., Thorseth, I.H., Steinsbu, B.O., Øvreås, L., Torsvik, T. and Pedersen, R.B. (2004), Microbial community diversity in seafloor basalt from the Arctic spreading ridges. FEMS Microbiology Ecology, 50: 213-230. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.femsec.2004.06.014