TOPIC FOR THE DAY MINERALS

A Mineral is: Naturally occurring, solid & inorganic

A mineral has An orderly internal structure its atoms must be arranged in a definite pattern

Mineral composition Must have a definite chemical composition that may vary within specified limits

Physical Properties Crystal forms Luster Hardness Cleavage Color Streak Fracture Specific Gravity

Only substances that meet these precise conditions are considered minerals.

Moh’s Scale of Hardness is a numerical scale for the hardness of minerals. Hardness ranges from

Assignments for lab Create a table for the identification of assigned minerals. The table should include characteristics such as, hardness, density, habit, crystal form, etc. Create your test kit. Kit should include: nail, small piece of copper, unglazed 2” x 2” ceramic tile and glass tile, hydrochloric acid (0.05% solution), small magnet, and a magnifying glass. Final research project: Research each mineral assigned and add at least five more minerals to your list of your choosing. You will then create a PowerPoint presentation that will include the mineral, image of mineral, economic use, defining characteristics, environment of formation and where they can be located throughout the world. Due dates Next slide

Minerals to research Mineral name Graphic imageDefining characteristics Image citation (location) Talc Calcite Diamond Corundum Fluorite Feldspar (potassium and orthoclase) Apatite Quartz (igneous and sedimentary) Gypsum Topaz

Where to send completed work Once your assignment is completed, send them to the following address created especially for this assignment.

Due dates Your completed mineral table is due by week 2 of this course. Your completed research project is due by week six of this course and will be counted as your final exam. Return to: