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Minerals vs. Rocks
Minerals and rocks, commonly mistaken as synonymous, possess unique characteristics in terms of composition, formation, and properties. This discussion will delve into the primary distinctions …
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Mineral Basics
Minerals, naturally occurring substances formed through geological processes, are the essential components of rocks. These substances often take thousands or even millions of years to …
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Mineral Identification
Mineral identification is the process of determining the name and characteristics of a mineral specimen by using a variety of tests. It is an important …
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Mohs Hardness Scale
The Mohs Hardness Scale is a universally recognized tool used to classify the hardness of minerals based on their ability to scratch one another. Developed …
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Native Elements
Native element minerals are a unique and captivating group of minerals composed of a single chemical element in their pure form. They can be found …
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Carbonates
Carbonate minerals are a diverse group of minerals composed of carbonate ions (CO3²⁻) combined with various metal cations, such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. They …
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Nesosilicates
Nesosilicates, also known as orthosilicates, are a group of silicate minerals that consist of isolated silica tetrahedra (SiO4) linked to various metal cations. These minerals …