GEOL 104 Chapter Notes -Conchoidal Fracture, Calcite, Birefringence
17 Aug 2013
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A mineral must exhibit the following characteristics to be classified as such: Orderly internal structure (atoms arranged in a definite pattern) Definite chemical composition that can vary within specified limits. Usually inorganic (some mineral formation can be mediated by biologic processes) A rock is any solid mass of mineral matter that occurs naturally as part of our planet. Limestone is composed of impure masses of the mineral calcite. Granite is composed of aggregates of different minerals (quartz, hornblende, and orthoclase feldspar) Aggregate implies the minerals are joined in a way that retains the properties of each individual mineral. Some rocks are composed of non-mineral matter such as the volcanic rocks obsidian and pumice which contain noncrystalline glassy substances. Halite, composed of sodium and chloride (common salt) form a cubed shape internal structure which allows for salt crystals. Polymorphic minerals are minerals that share the same elements but have different properties:
