Andrew Weaver, age 14, of Denton, Tex., for his question:

WHERE IS SOAPSTONE FOUND?

Soapstone is a soft rock composed mostly of the mineral talc. It feels soapy or oily and varies in color from white to gray and grayish green.

The United States ranks among the leading soapstone producers of the world. It is found in California, New York, North Carolina and Virginia. Other countries that produce soapstone include Canada, Italy and France.

Soapstone is formed in the earth by changes in the structure and composition of an igneous rock such as peridotite. These changes occur at moderate pressure in the presence of water.

Soapstone is a good electric insulator and can easily be cut into various shapes. Because soapstone is not affected by high temperatures or acids, it is also used for laboratory table tops and sinks.
Powdered soapstone is sometimes added to cosmetics, paper and paint.