3: Construction materials

Question 1

How is limestone quarried?

Answer 1

A large but shallow hole is in the ground where limestone can be found
Explosives are usually used to break up the rock so that it can be removed

Question 2

Name some construction materials and how they can be used in buildings

Answer 2

Aggregate (crushed limestone) is used as a firm base underneath railway lines and a foundation for roads before tarmac is laid over the top.
Clay is used to make bricks.
Sand is heated to make glass.
Limestone can be cut into large bricks to make buildings.

Question 3

Benefits of quarries

Answer 3

• provide jobs to locals
• products are valuable and have many uses
• helps with countries economic success

Question 4

Problems of quarries

Answer 4

• ruin view of attractive areas
• damage tourist industry
• noise pollution
• poor quality of life for locals
• using lorries to transport products causes traffic congestion meaning people must pass through small villages and towns

Question 5

What is limestone

Answer 5

a sedimentary rock formed from the shells and skeletons of sea creatures

Question 6

What is marble

Answer 6

a metamorphic rock formed from limestone

Question 7

Which is harder: marble or limestone and why?

Answer 7

Marble as it has small grains that are joined together more strongly than the grains in limestone

Question 8

Which is harder: granite or marble and why?

Answer 8

Granite (igneous rock) as its crystals are joined together more strongly than the grains in marble