What type of igneous rocks are characterized by large crystals that form from the slow cooling of magma?

Intrusive igneous rocks are formed from magma that cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface. This slower cooling process allows for the formation of large crystals, as the mineral components in the magma have more time to crystallize and grow. Common examples of intrusive igneous rocks include granite and diorite, which are known for their coarse texture and visible crystals.

In contrast, extrusive igneous rocks form from lava that cools rapidly on the Earth's surface, resulting in fine-grained textures with small or no visible crystals. Sedimentary rocks develop through the accumulation of sediment and do not involve the processes associated with magma or crystallization. Metamorphic rocks result from the alteration of existing rock due to heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids, rather than the crystallization of molten material. Therefore, intrusive igneous rocks are the type distinguished by their large crystals due to slow cooling.