when a diorite partially melts, which element(1)............ decreases in the melt as a(2).......... magma forms.
I have few options to choose from
a)iron
b)andesite
c)rhyolite
d)potassium
f)basalt
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To determine which element decreases in the melt as diorite partially melts, we need to understand the composition of diorite and the process of partial melting.
1) Composition of Diorite: Diorite is an intrusive igneous rock composed mainly of plagioclase feldspar, amphibole, and biotite mica. It consists of minerals rich in various elements.
2) Partial Melting: Partial melting occurs when a rock experiences enough heat to melt only a portion of its constituents. Different minerals have different melting points, and as a result, when partial melting occurs, certain minerals will melt while others remain solid.
Given the information above, we need to determine which element is more abundant in the minerals that remain solid during partial melting.
Option (d) Potassium is not typically a major component of diorite. Option (f) Basalt refers to a different type of igneous rock and is not directly related to the question. Option (b) Andesite and option (c) Rhyolite are both volcanic rocks and are not directly applicable to the composition of diorite.
Therefore, the correct answer is option (a) Iron. Iron is commonly found within the minerals of diorite, such as amphibole and biotite mica, which are not extensively melted during the process of diorite partial melting. As a result, the iron content in the melt would generally decrease as magma forms.