Minerals

Mr. SkirbstEarth Science

Topic 22

Minerals

Naturally occurring, inorganic solid that has a definite

chemical composition and crystal structure

5 Characteristics of Minerals1. Naturally occurring –Found in nature, not synthetic

5 Characteristics of Minerals1. Naturally occurring -2. Inorganic -Not formed by or from living

things

5 Characteristics of Minerals1. Naturally occurring -2. Inorganic -3. Solid -Definite shape and volume

5 Characteristics of Minerals1. Naturally occurring -2. Inorganic -3. Solid -4. Definite Composition -Has a specific chemical formula

5 Characteristics of Minerals1. Naturally occurring -2. Inorganic -3. Solid -4. Definite Composition -5. Crystal Structure -Repeating pattern of atoms

Mineral Identification

Mineral Identification

1. Color

Mineral Identification

1. ColorVery variable,Not reliable

Mineral Identification

2. Luster

Mineral Identification

2. LusterThe way light reflects off surface

(metallic or non-metallic)

Mineral Identification

3. Hardness

Mineral Identification

3. HardnessResistance to scratching

(Mohs scale and field hardness)

Mineral Identification

4. Streak

Mineral Identification

4. StreakColor of powder when rubbed

(streak plate is used)

Mineral Identification

5. Density

Mineral Identification

5. DensityMass per unit volume(“heft” used in field)

Mineral Identification

6. Crystal Shape

Mineral Identification

6. Crystal ShapeSix basic shapes

Mineral Identification

7. Breakage

Mineral Identification

7. BreakageThe way a mineral breaks:

Mineral Identification

7. BreakageThe way a mineral breaks:Cleavage – smooth surface

Mineral Identification

7. BreakageThe way a mineral breaks:Cleavage – smooth surface

Fracture – rough surface

Mineral Identification

8. Special Properties

Mineral Identification

8. Special Propertiesmagnetic, radioactive, odor,

taste, glow, chemically reactive

Mohs Hardness Scale1. 6.2. 7.3. 8.4. 9.5. 10.

Field Hardness Scale1. 6.2. 7.3. 8.4. 9.5. 10.