What is a Mineral? Definition A naturally formed, inorganic, solid that has a definite crystalline structure. Naturally formed – not made by people Inorganic – made from non-living things Solid – definite shape and volume Crystalline structure – repeated inner pattern of atoms that helps to shape the mineral

Atoms and Compounds Native Element Minerals are made up of atoms of one or more elements Most minerals are compounds of several different elements A mineral that has only one kind of element is called a native element

Mineral Classification Silicates Classified based on chemical composition Minerals that contain a combination of the elements silicon and oxygen Make up 90% of the Earth’s crust Found on or near the Earth’s surface Examples are Quartz, Mica, and Feldspar

Nonsilicates Minerals that do not contain a combination of Silicon and Oxygen Usually found farther into the earth away from the surface Often contain elements such as Carbon, Fluorine, Sulfur, and Oxygen Examples are Copper, Calcite, and Galena