The Composition of Leucosome in Migmatite

Composition of Leucosome in Migmatite

Leucosome in Migmatite: Leucosome is a term used to describe the lighter-colored bands or portions found within migmatite, a type of rock that forms as a result of high-grade metamorphism involving partial melting. These lighter-colored portions stand out against the darker-colored melanosome bands in migmatite.

Mineral Composition: Leucosomes are predominantly composed of low melting point minerals, with quartz being a major component. Quartz is known for its high silica content, which is why it is abundant in leucosomes. Additionally, feldspar is also commonly found alongside quartz in leucosomes, contributing to their light coloration.

Other minerals like spinel, olivine, biotite, garnet, cordierite, and hornblende are not as prevalent in leucosomes as quartz. These minerals have different characteristics and origins compared to the minerals typically found in leucosomes.

Significance of Mineral Composition: Understanding the mineral composition of leucosomes is crucial for interpreting the formation and history of migmatite rocks. The presence of quartz and feldspar in leucosomes indicates the processes of partial melting and mineral segregation that occurred during high-grade metamorphism.

Overall, the mineral composition of leucosomes, particularly the abundance of quartz, provides valuable insights into the conditions under which migmatite rocks formed and the geological processes that shaped them.