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Minerals Physical Properties. What are we learning?. Why are we learning this concept?. Crystal Growth & Structure. Classes of Minerals.
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Minerals Physical Properties
What are we learning?
Why are we learning this concept?
Classes of Minerals • Elements Class – metals/non-metals; composition is a metal, such as iron, combined with non-metallic elements such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorous, and silicon; unique and rare; Ex: barringerite • Sulfides • Halides • Oxides • Carbonates • Sulfates • Phosphates • Silicates • The Organic Class • The Mineraloids
Hardness How easily a mineral is scratched. Reference: Mohs Scale Diamond, hardest known mineral, is rated 10 on the Mohs Scale & a Fingernail has a hardness rating of 2.5 on the Mohs Scale.
Luster The way a mineral reflects light. Two Main Categories: Metallic and Nonmetallic Metallic Submetallic Adamantine Resinous
Luster The way a mineral reflects light. Two Main Categories: Metallic and Nonmetallic Glassy/Vitreous Pearly Oily/Greasy Dull
Streak The color of a mineral in powdered form. Example: Gold – yellow streak Pyrite – greenish-black or brownish-black streak
Cleavage or Fracture Cleavage – breaks along smooth, flat surfaces (layers of paper). Fracture – uneven, rough, or jagged surfaces. Cleavage Fracture