Question

which correctly lists three features of a rocks grains that determine its texture?
color, pattern, size
formation, color, shape
pattern, color, formation
shape, pattern, size

Explanation:

Rock texture is determined by grain - related physical characteristics. Color is related to mineral composition and not a texture - determining feature of grains. Formation is related to how the rock is made (e.g., igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic formation processes) and not a grain - based texture feature. Shape, pattern, and size of grains directly contribute to the rock's texture. For example, in sedimentary rocks, the size (e.g., sand - sized, silt - sized), shape (e.g., rounded, angular) and pattern (e.g., sorting of grains) of sedimentary grains (clasts) are key in determining texture.

Answer:

shape, pattern, size