What usually happens to stones when they are exposed to high temperatures?

When stones are exposed to high temperatures, their structural integrity can be significantly compromised depending on the type of stone and the intensity of the heat. While some stones may exhibit minimal changes at moderate temperatures, most types will tend to become brittle and may crumble when exposed to extreme heat. This is due to the thermal expansion and contraction that affects their internal structure, which can create fractures or weaken bonds between particles.

While some might retain a portion of their strength at lower temperatures, the continuation of high temperature exposure typically leads to increased brittleness, making crumbling more likely rather than maintaining stability. Stones generally do not gain additional strength under heat; in fact, extreme conditions lead them to lose structural soundness.

Understanding these properties is vital in fire safety and construction, as it influences material choice in fire-prone areas and during high-temperature events, such as wildfires or structural fires.