Identifying Minerals Quiz

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Questions and Answers

Which of these tests is NOT typically used to analyze a non-metallic mineral?

Cleavage/fracture test
Streak test
Magnetism test (correct)
Hardness test

The first step when identifying a mineral is to determine whether it is metallic or non-metallic.

True (A)

What is the significance of the color of a mineral's streak in identifying a feldspar?

The streak color can help differentiate between different feldspar varieties. For instance, an orange streak indicates Oligoclase.

When identifying a metallic mineral, observing the _______ color after breaking the specimen can provide valuable information.

<p>oxidation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following mineral properties with their corresponding tests:

<p>Hardness = Scratching the mineral with other materials of known hardness Cleavage/fracture = Observing how the mineral breaks Luster = How the mineral reflects light Streak = Rubbing the mineral across a streak plate to reveal its powder color</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Order of Identifying Non-Metallic Minerals

A sequential process to identify non-metallic minerals based on various tests.

Tests for Non-Metallic Minerals

Steps include testing hardness, streak, cleavage/fracture, habit, luster, and associated minerals.

Identification of Feldspar

Specific feldspar types identified by color or associated properties, such as albite and anorthite.

Feldspar Identification Colors

Different feldspar types are identified by their characteristic colors including white for Albite and dark grey for Anorthite.

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Order of Identifying Metallic Minerals

A process to identify metallic minerals involving checks for magnetism and oxidation color.

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Study Notes

Identifying Minerals

Non-Metallic Minerals:
- Test for acidity
- Test hardness
- Test streak
- Observe cleavage/fracture
- Observe luster
- Look for associated minerals
Feldspar Minerals:
- If white, look for associated minerals (low Bowen's):
  - Albite
  - If orange streak, Oligoclase
  - If labradorescence, Labradorite
  - If yellow/translucent, Bytownite
  - If grey/dark, associated with top Bowen's, Anorthite
Metallic Minerals:
- Check for magnetism
- Test hardness
- Test streak
- Observe oxidation color at break
- Check specimen
- Look for associated minerals