Table of Contents
Why is density considered the most reliable way to identify a mineral?
Sometimes two minerals of the same size have different weights . Differences in weight is the result of differences in densities. Because density is not dependent on the size or shape . The most reliable way to identify a mineral is by using a combination of several test.
What is a reliable way to identify a mineral?
The most reliable way to identify a mineral using color is the streak test. It is more reliable because even though the color of a specimen can vary its streak is usually the same.
Can you identify a mineral by its density?
Minerals have distinctive properties that can be used to help identify them. A mineral has a characteristic density. Mohs Hardness Scale is used to compare the hardness of minerals. Cleavage or the characteristic way a mineral breaks depends on the crystal structure of the mineral.
What is density in mineral?
The density of a mineral is the ratio of its mass to its volume. It is a measure of how much “stuff” is squeezed into the amount of space the mineral occupies. Objective: Students will measure and compare the densities of minerals.
What method of mineral identification are most reliable?
Hardness. The ability to resist being scratched—or hardness—is one of the most useful properties for identifying minerals.
What might control the density of a mineral?
The density of minerals is controlled by their elemental composition and internal bonding and structure. The density of liquids and gases is controlled by: chemical composition (including soluble components), temperature and pressure (density increases with increasing pressure and decreasing temperature).
How do you find the density of a mineral?
To determine the actual density of a mineral, you divide the mass or weight of a sample by its volume. Written out, the formula for calculating density is: = M/V Where D = density (g/mL), M= mass (g), and V=volume (mL)
How do you calculate specific gravity of a mineral?
A mineral’s specific gravity (SG) can be determined by dividing its weight in air by the weight of an equal volume of water. For instance, quartz with a density of 2.65 is 2.65 times as heavy as the same volume of water. SG = mineral mass/water mass
Is a mineral’s color a reliable way to identify it?
Explain why a mineral’s color is not a totally reliable way to identify it. Which test related to color is more reliable? Some rocks have similar color. Streak test Under what conditions do geologists believe most mineral crystals formed?
What are the physical properties of minerals?
Using Characteristics of Minerals to Identify Them Most minerals can be characterized and classified by their unique physical properties: hardness, luster, color, streak, specific gravity, cleavage, fracture, and tenacity.