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Minerals topics include: Physical properties, formation and descriptive study of minerals.
In geology, a mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic substance with a specific crystal structure and chemical composition. Minerals are formed by geological processes and are usually solid and inorganic.
Minerals can be classified based on their chemical composition, crystal structure, and physical properties.
Some of the major classes of minerals are: Silicates, Sulfides, Carbonates, Oxides, Halides, Sulfates, Phosphates, Native elements. There are over 5,000 known mineral species, and new minerals are being discovered and identified every year.
Here are some examples of minerals:
Calcite: A mineral made of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). It is generally white to clear, and is easily scratched with a knife. Calcite reacts to most acids, such as hydrochloric acid (HCl), and effervesces on contact. Most seashells are made of calcite or related minerals.
Quartz: A mineral name that refers to a specific chemical compound (silicon dioxide, or silica, SiO2). It is found in all forms of rock: igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary. Quartz is physically and chemically resistant to weathering.
Some other common minerals are: Feldspar, Mica, Amphibole, Olivine.
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