Chapter 3

Using the geologic definition of mineral as your guide, determine which of the items on this list are minerals and which are not. If not a mineral, explain. a. Gold nugget e. Obsidian b. Seawater f. Ruby c. Quartz g. Glacial ice d. Cubic zirconia h. Amber

Refer to the periodic table of the elements (Figure 3.5) to help you answer Questions $2,3,$ and $4.$ Assume that the number of protons in a neutral atom is 92 and its mass number is 238 . a. What is the name of the element? b. How many electrons does it have? c. How many neutrons does it have?

Gold has a specific gravity of almost $20.$ A 5 -gallon bucket of water weighs 40 pounds. How much would a 5 -gallon bucket of gold weigh?

Each of the following statements describes a silicate mineral or mineral group. In each case, provide the appropriate name: a. The most common member of the amphibole group b. The most common nonferromagnesian member of the mica family c. The only common silicate mineral made entirely of silicon and oxygen d. A high-temperature silicate with a name that is based on its color e. A silicate mineral that is characterized by striations f. A silicate mineral that originates as a product of chemical weathering

Do an Internet search to determine what mineral or minerals are extracted from the ground during the manufacturing of the following products. a. Stainless steel utensils b. Cat litter c. Tums brand antacid tablets d. Lithium batteries e. Aluminum beverage cans