ELS RECITATION 3

Study Notes

Most Abundant Group of Minerals in the Earth's Crust

Silicate minerals dominate the Earth's crust, comprising approximately 90% of it.
They consist of silicon and oxygen, often combined with other elements.

Carbonate Minerals

Characterized by the carbonate anion (CO₃²⁻).
Common examples include calcite and dolomite, primarily found in sedimentary rocks.

Oxide Minerals

Composed of oxygen anions (O²⁻) combined with one or more metal ions.
Key examples include hematite (iron oxide) and corundum (aluminum oxide).

Sulfide Minerals

Formed by the combination of sulfur with metals.
Important sulfide minerals include pyrite (fool's gold) and galena (lead sulfide).

Halide Minerals

Contain halogen elements, such as fluorine or chlorine, combined with one or more metals.
Common halides include halite (rock salt) and fluorite.

Native Elements

Minerals formed from individual elements, not compounds.
Examples include gold, silver, and copper, which occur in their pure elemental forms.

Sulfate Minerals

Contain the sulfate anion (SO₄²⁻) mixed with cations.
Examples include gypsum (calcium sulfate) and barite (barium sulfate).

Conductive Minerals

Minerals such as graphite and certain sulfides exhibit high thermal and electric conductivity.
Important in electrical and thermal applications.

Fragile Minerals

Generally more fragile than metals and possess lower conductivity.
Examples include brittle minerals like calcite and gypsum.

Non-Conductive Elements

Elements that do not conduct electricity well, such as diamond and specific insulators.
Important in applications requiring resistance to electricity.

Description

Test your knowledge on the most abundant minerals found in the Earth's crust. This quiz covers various mineral groups, their properties, and significance in geology. Perfect for students and geology enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding.