Black Chalk is made from what material?

• A. Charcoal
• B. Graphite
• C. Iron oxide pigment
• D. Carbonaceous shale

Answer: (D)

Black Chalk is a natural pigment sourced from carbon-rich shale. This sedimentary rock contains organic carbon that, when finely ground, yields a deep black suitable for chalk drawing. It differs from charcoal (charred wood residue), graphite (a mineral form of carbon used in pencils), and iron oxide pigments (which give red, brown, or yellow tones). The distinguishing point is that Black Chalk comes from carbonaceous shale, not from those other carbon or oxide sources.