Crystal Systems Flashcards
0
Q
Tetragonal
A
3 axes (two are the same length). All 90 degrees to each other.
1
Q
Isometric
A
Cube. Three crystal axes all the same length. All at right angles
2
Q
Orthorhombic
A
“The Brick.” 3 axes, all different lengths. All 90 degrees to each other.
3
Q
Monoclinic
A
3 axes all different lengths. Only two at 90 degrees. 1/3 of all minerals in this category.
4
Q
Triclinic
A
3 axes all different lengths. None at 90 degrees.
5
Q
Hexagonal
A
C axis perpendicular to A and B. A and B are in a plane 120 degrees apart. C is longer or shorter than A or B.
6
Q
How do crystals grow?
A
- Solution (water, magma, gas)
- Increase saturization:
Decrease solvent (evaporation)
OR
Decrease solubility (temperature)
7
Q
Crystals shape according to:
A
Conservation of energy. It’s easier for a crystal to form a geometric shape than a blob.
8
Q
What are the six crystal groups?
A
Isometric Tetragonal Hexagonal Orthorhombic Monoclinic Triclinic
