Minerals Flashcards
What is a mineral?
A naturally occurring, inorganic solid compound made up of one or more element. (With a limited character composition and definite atomic structure)
Why is glass not a mineral?
Does not have a definitive atomic structure, atoms are not arranged in a fixed pattern, and is organic
What is a crystal?
A single, continuous piece of crystalline solid
How do we ID minerals?
Color, streak, luster, hardness, specific gravity, fracture, cleavage
Define “XRD”/diffraction
when waves intersect with regularly spaced objects
What must occur for diffraction to happen?
Atoms must be regularly spaced and this spacing must be similar to the wavelengths of the x-rays
What defines XRD patterns?
regular spacing or the regular alternation of atoms
Define Polymorphs
two or more minerals with the same chemical composition but different atomic structure (ex: Graphite & Diamond)
How do minerals form?
- Freezing
- Precipitation (liquid)
- Diffusion
- Biomineralization
- Precipitation (Gas)
