What is bowens reaction series?

Bowen's Reaction Series is a concept in geology that describes the order in which different minerals crystallize from a magma as it cools and solidifies. It was developed by the Canadian geologist Norman L. Bowen in the early 20th century.

The series is divided into two branches: the discontinuous series and the continuous series. The discontinuous series describes the crystallization of minerals from the highest temperature minerals to the lowest temperature minerals, while the continuous series describes the gradual change in mineral composition as the magma cools.

The minerals in the discontinuous series include olivine, pyroxene, amphibole, biotite, and potassium feldspar. These minerals form at different temperature ranges, with olivine forming at the highest temperatures and potassium feldspar forming at the lowest temperatures.

The minerals in the continuous series include plagioclase feldspar and quartz. Plagioclase feldspar forms first and changes in composition as the magma cools, while quartz forms last at the lowest temperatures.

Bowen's Reaction Series is important for understanding the formation of different igneous rocks and their mineral compositions. It also helps geologists determine the cooling history of a rock based on its mineral composition.