How Do Minerals Form Crystallization- process of particles dissolved in a liquid or melted, solidify and form a crystal. Magma- molten (liquid) rock stored below Earth’s surface. Lava- molten rock on or above Earth’s surface.

Minerals Formed From Magma and Lava

As molten rock cools atoms and ions arrange themselves and form mineral crystals. – Smaller crystals form faster. (above ground) – Larger crystals form slower. (below ground)

Minerals Formed by Evaporation

Cool solutions- water dissolves some minerals. when water evaporates the solids come out and crystallize forming mineral crystals. – Ex: halite Hot solutions- Deep in the Earth’s crust hot water flows through cracks and dissolves minerals. Later when water cools, minerals come out and form crystals. – Ex: gold, copper

Minerals Formed By Metamorphism

Some minerals are formed deep under high pressure and high temperatures. When brought to the surface they are less stable.