Goldschmidt's classification

Question 1

Lithophile (rock loving)

Answer 1

Elements that combine with O2 readily forming low density compounds that remain in the crust

Question 2

Siderophile (iron loving)

Answer 2

High density elements that combine more easily with iron than O2. Forms dense compounds that go to lower layers

Question 3

Chalcophile (ore loving)

Answer 3

Elements that combine with sulphur. Fairly high density means they descend- but not as far as siderophiles

Question 4

Atmophile (Gas loving)

Answer 4

Occur as gases or liquids at temp and pressure conditions found on or above the earth’s surface

Question 5

What is Goldschmidt’s classification

Answer 5

The elements are grouped according to how they occur in the earth. The dense mineral displaced the lighter ones upwards

Question 6

What might explain the occurrence of rare siderophiles in the crust?

Answer 6

Meteorites. E.g. Iridium is incredibly rare on earth but can be found in large quantities around meteorite impacts

Question 7

What is wrong with Goldschmidt’s classification system?

Answer 7

Seismic data suggests the cool crust and lithosphere are rigid and are divided in plates which can move due to the mantle becoming rheid and seismic waves decrease in speed.